CELLULAR AND MOLECULAR MECHANISMS OF DENTAL IMPLANT OSSEOINTEGRATION

Osseointegration is the critical biological process that ensures stable and long-lasting integration of dental implants with surrounding bone tissue. This process is governed by coordinated cellular activities involving osteoblasts, osteoclasts, osteocytes, and mesenchymal stem cells, as well as molecular signaling pathways including cytokines, growth factors, integrins, and Wnt/β-catenin. Implant surface characteristics and mechanical loading influence bone remodeling and healing outcomes. Understanding these cellular and molecular mechanisms is essential for optimizing implant design, improving clinical success, and enhancing long-term stability. This review summarizes current knowledge on the key biological processes underlying osseointegration and highlights recent advancements in molecular and biomaterial research that support implant integration.