Abstract: A dental prosthesis comprising an anchoring base for insertion into prepared osseous tissue is provided. The anchoring base generally has a body portion having a top, a bottom, and an outside surface. A crown portion is provided for attachment to the top of said anchoring base. Provided is an outside surface for enhanced osteointegration of said tissue to said anchoring base and an elastic member extending outwardly from the outside surface of said body portion to provide a stabilizing force against said living osseous tissue. The outside surface of the body portion can be provided with a recess for selectively receiving the elastic member. The elastic member can extend outwardly from the outside surface of said body portion or be selectively retained within the corresponding recess. The elastic member can be made of a biodegradable material. The biodegradable materials used in the implant can further incorporate bioactive agents which are gradually released into the surrounding tissue.

Abstract: An automated periodontal probe uses a logic device to control the drive motor of a distendable probe rod. The movement of the probe rod is measurable and the force applied to the rod is quantifiable, therefore the device affords exacting repeatability of test procedures on periodontal tissues and permits an accurate survey of the gum pockets which survey may be displayed or recorded. Further the device can be calibrated to cause minimum discomfort to the patient.

Abstract: Periodontal analysis apparatus includes a probe member having a tip, a probe housing having a guide channel in which the probe member is disposed for reciprocating movement with the tip of the probe member extending from the channel, force applying means for reciprocating the probe member in the housing, and transducer means in the housing for monitoring motion of the probe member and sensing perturbations in probe motion caused by the CEJ and providing output signals indicative thereof.