Custom-Made Biomaterials

Objective:Since ancient times use is made of synthetic materials for the replacement of lost or traumatized body tissues. In general, all these materials are classified as "biomaterials". Method:Each biomaterial has to meet a number of requirements, which are very specific for the situation in which the material is applied. In view of this, there is currently a need to custom-made biomaterials, of which implants or bone substitutes can be made and which evoke a predictable predetermined bone response. In view of this, during the last few years world-wide research has been started to determine whether living cells and/or so-called tissue inducing factors can be used to support the regeneration of bone tissue. This new research field is called "tissue engineering". Results: Tissue engineering is defined as the application of methods and principles from the engineering and life sciences in order to obtain a better understanding of the relations between structure and function in normal as well as pathological body tissues and the development of materials and methods for the repair, maintenance and improvement of biomaterials. A central issue in this definition is that a biomaterial, as used for the manufacturing of an implant, has to restore a disturbed body function on basis of biological and physiological behavior. Consequently, the aim of the installation of an implant is not focused on tissue repair but tissue regeneration. Conclusion:In the current presentation an overview will be given of the application of bone inducing morphogens and mesenchymal cells on titanium mesh and calcium phosphate ceramic for the regeneration of bone tissue around oral implants.