title: A brief historical perspective on dental implants, their surface coatings and treatments.
abstract: This review highlights a brief, chronological sequence of the history of dental implants. This historical perspective begins with ancient civilizations and spotlights predominant dentists and their contributions to implant development through time. The physical, chemical and biologic properties of various dental implant surfaces and coatings are discussed, and specific surface treatments include an overview of machined implants, etched implants, and sand-blasted implants. Dental implant coatings such as hydroxyapatite, fluoride, and statin usage are further reviewed.
authors.affiliation: Texas A and M University Health Science Center, Baylor College of Dentistry, Department of Periodontics, 3302 Gaston Avenue, Room 142, Dallas, Texas, 75246.
authors.forename: Celeste M
authors.initials: CM
authors.lastname: Abraham
keywords: Dental history; implant surface; implants; surface coating.