Controlled release properties and final macroporosity of a pectin microspheres-calcium phosphate composite bone cement.

The use of calcium phosphate cements (CPC) is restricted by their lack of macroporosity and poor drug release properties. To overcome these two limitations, incorporating degradable polymer microparticles into CPC is an attractive option, as polymer microparticles could help to control drug release and induce macroporosity after degradation. Although few authors have yet tested synthetic polymers, the potentiality of polysaccharides' assuming this role has never been explored.

Dynamic mechanical properties of a biomimetic hydroxyapatite/polyamide 6,9 nanocomposite.

A biomimetic composite of nanohydroxyapatite (nHap) and semicrystalline polyamide 6,9 (PA 6,9) was synthesized by thermally induced phase separation. The nHap powder was dispersed in a polymer matrix with a low ratio ranging 1-10 wt %. The mean size of the nHap, determined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was approximately 100-200 nm (length), 40-60 nm (width).

[Pathogenic occlusion and functional occlusion: definition of completion].

The masticatory system is widely adaptable and tolerant especially in young people ; this characteristic can be helpful but it can also incur risks because there are limits to everything. Guided solely by the insubstantial support provided by data derived from evidence-based medicine, a researcher would have to be both excessively clever and unusually cunning to define the borderline between physiological and pathological occlusion. Accordingly, the optimization of masticatory function through the intermediary of efficient occlusal interaction of upper and lower teeth remains a fundamental common sense objective of all dental treatment.

Behaviour of an injectable calcium phosphate cement with added tetracycline.

A calcium phosphate cement containing an antibiotic can be used for filling bone defects and to ensure local antibiotherapy. A calcium phosphate cement (already marketed under the name of Cementek can become injectable thanks to the addition of silicone. For dental applications, the behaviour of this injectable cement with added tetracycline was investigated.

Setting characteristics and mechanical behaviour of a calcium phosphate bone cement containing tetracycline.

Calcium phosphate cements are used for bone defect filling and they may also be used as delivery systems for active agents. The physicochemical behaviour of an ionic cement, with a final composition of hydroxyapatite, containing tetracycline hydrochloride was investigated. Chemical characterisation, X-ray diffraction analysis, compressive strength and tensile strength were performed.