Fibrous encapsulation

Fibrous encapsulation refers to the layer of fibrous connective tissue that is formed between a dental implant and surrounding bone. Following implant surgery, the implant should begin to integrate with the nearby hard and soft tissues of the mouth. Though osseointegration is frequently written of post implant, the integration that takes place between the implant components and the connective tissues at the site is also important to implant stability and longevity. Fibrous connective tissue has several functions, one of the primary being to provide support to surrounding tissues. Therefore, the successful re-growth of fibrous connective tissue in developing a fibrous encapsulation between the bone and the implant provides additional support to the dental prosthesis and increases the likelihood of long-term retention. Not only does this connective tissue anchor the implant more securely to the bone but to the surrounding teeth, tissues, and oral framework which gives the prosthesis a greater chance for success.