Numerical simulation of electrically stimulated osteogenesis in dental implants

Cell behavior and tissue formation are influenced by a static electric field (EF). Several protocols for EF exposure are aimed at increasing the rate of tissue recovery and reducing the healing times in wounds. However, the underlying mechanisms of the EF action on cells and tissues are still a matter of research. In this work we introduce a mathematical model for electrically stimulated osteogenesis at the bone–dental implant interface. The model describes the influence of the EF in the most critical biological processes leading to bone formation at the bone–dental implant interface. The numerical solution is able to reproduce the distribution of spatial–temporal patterns describing the influence of EF during blood clotting, osteogenic cell migration, granulation tissue formation, displacements of the fibrillar matrix, and formation of new bone. In addition, the model describes the EF-mediated cell behavior and tissue formation which lead to an increased osteogenesis in both smooth and rough implant surfaces. Since numerical results compare favorably with experimental evidence, the model can be used to predict the outcome of using electrostimulation in other types of wounds and tissues. [Display omitted] •Cell migration and wound repair can be directed by an external electric field.•Electrostimulation increases the number of osteogenic cells over a dental implant.•The adhesion of cells to an implant can be enhanced by applying an electric field.•Electrostimulation improves the rate of bone repair and reduces the healing time.