Calcium Phosphate Bioceramics: Past, Present and Future

Calcium phosphate (CaP) bioceramics in different forms (blocks, granules, cements, implant coatings, composite component), from different origin (natural, biological or synthetic) and varying composition are commercially available for use in dentistry and medicine. This paper briefly reviews the preparation, properties and past, present and potential future applications of CaP. Commercial calcium phosphate biomaterials include HA from synthetic, natural (from coral) and biologic (from bovine bone) origin, calcium-deficient apatite, beta-TCO, BCP, calcium phosphate cements, and coatings on dental and othropedic implants. Appropriate goemetry can make the CaP materials osteoinductive.