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SummaryCeramic and ceramic composite materials and devices were developed for specific maxillofacial applications. These applications included: (I) Replacement of hard tissue voids in low stress areas with a phosphate-bonded alumina-foamed ceramic and a calcium aluminate-bonded alumina foam; (2) development of porous ceramic-coated metallic devices for stabilization of mandibles with avulsed segments; (3) development of implantable ceramic tooth roots onto which more or less conventional crowns may be mounted.Efforts to date have been rewarding. Using the rhesus monkey for all experimental implant work, incorporation of porous ceramic foam prostheses to eliminate maxillary defects has been accomplished. Also, we have succeeded in stabilizing the mandible where segments of from 3 to 8 mm were removed. Bridging of the gap with new bone occurred within 6 weeks resulting in a total regeneration of the resected area with restoration of normal mandibular function. Finally, implantable tooth roots were developed. Three different surface treatment techniques have been used on a basic high-density alumina core. The first is a high-density matt finish which can only permit a fibrous tissue attachment or bony approximation but no ingrowth. The second is a porous alumina coating intended to permit bone ingrowth. The third is a rough surface consisting of particles of alumina sintered to the surface to maximize the bone/ceramic interface shear strength potential. Implantations of both anterior and posterior tooth roots with all three surface configurations have been successful for periods of up to six months.

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