PURPOSE: To evaluate the early bone response to a nanotextured dental implant treated with sodium sulfate (Na2SO4), using a rabbit model. METHODS: Twelve animals were randomly divided into group 1 (Control) - machined implants and group 2 (Test) - nanotextured implants. Extra-oral incision was performed to provide access to intended surgical site where the dental implant was inserted immediately after the extraction of the mandibular first premolar. Implant surface characterization was performed by scanning electron microscopy attached to energy dispersive spectroscopy and interferometry. Three weeks after surgery, the animals were induced to death and undecalcified sections of the samples were prepared for histological and histomorphometrical analysis. RESULTS: Surface characterization of the implant demonstrated enhanced surface area of anodized group compared to Control group with 19.2% ± 6.2 versus 1.6 ± 0.7, respectively. Histological evaluation demonstrated new bone formation starting from the buccal and lingual cortical walls on both groups. After three weeks, significant higher bone contact of 27% (p<0.05) was observed to nanotextured compared to machined implants (Control group). CONCLUSION: The anodization with sodium sulfate nanostructures to the implant surface that resulted in faster osseointegration.

OBJETIVO: Descrever uma técnica cirúrgica em coelhos para avaliação de enxertos ósseos. MÉTODOS: A técnica operatória consiste numa incisão na topografia da comissura labial até o ultimo molar. Uma incisão de 1cm no rebordo para expor o osso alveolar e a região cervical dos molares. Realizou-se a exodontia com fórceps e o alvéolo é preenchido com hidroxiapatita. Após o tempo de cicatrização é realizada a avaliação histológica. RESULTADOS: A análise histológica mostrou o novo osso formado rodeando biomaterial. CONCLUSÃO: O modelo cirúrgico para avaliação de enxertos ósseos utilizando molares de coelhos se mostrou factível.

PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to describe an experimental surgical technique to be used in the evaluation of bone grafts in rabbits. METHODS: The operative technique was performed in jaws, with external approach from the labial commissure to the last molar tooth. An incision about 1cm extended forward to the alveolar ridge, followed by a exposing the cervical region of the alveolar bone and dental elements was done. Thus, after extraction of first molar with forceps, the tooth socket left was filled with hydroxyapatite. The bone gain was analyzed by histopathological studies. RESULTS: The histological analyses indicated formed bone surrounding the biomaterial. CONCLUSION: The experimental model using the tooth socket of the rabbit molar is a feasible procedure for studies of bone grafts.