In the context of dental implants, which type of integration reflects a less rigid connection?

Fibrous integration refers to a type of connection that occurs when there is an interface between the dental implant and the surrounding bone or soft tissue that is not as stable and rigid as osseointegration. In this integration process, a fibrous tissue encapsulates the implant, allowing some mobility and a less direct load transfer compared to osseointegration, where direct bone apposition is established, resulting in a much stronger and stable bond.

Osseointegration is characterized by direct contact between the bone and the implant surface, providing a firm and rigid connection essential for the successful functioning of dental implants. Cemented integration typically involves the use of dental cement to secure a prosthesis to the implant, forming a bond that compromises the ability to adjust or replace components easily. Biologic integration generally refers to the overall biological response of the surrounding tissues to the implant, and it doesn’t specifically address the rigidity or stability of the connection.

Thus, fibrous integration is identified as the type of integration that indicates a less rigid connection, as the presence of fibrous tissue does not provide the same stability as bone-to-implant contact.