intrabony

Intrabony is an adjective describing something contained within bone. In medical contexts, the term is used to describe pathologies, defects, implants, or other structures that reside inside bone tissue. The term is derived from intra- meaning inside and os, bone.

In dentistry, intrabony is commonly used in two areas: osseous defects in periodontics and dental implants placed within the jawbone. Intrabony defects (osseous defects) occur when periodontal disease causes vertical loss of alveolar bone around a tooth, leaving bone resorption that extends apically within the socket. Clinicians classify osseous defects by the number of remaining walls: one-wall, two-wall, three-wall, or four-wall defects. Treatment ranges from non-surgical debridement to periodontal therapy and regenerative procedures, such as bone grafts or guided tissue regeneration, to promote bone fill and periodontal reattachment.

Intrabony implants, also known as endosseous implants, are devices placed within the alveolar bone to support prosthetic crowns, bridges, or dentures. Successful outcomes require osseointegration, good bone quality, and proper surgical planning. Complications can include infection, peri-implantitis, and implant failure, though modern implantology emphasizes precise placement and biocompatible materials.

The term intrabony can also describe intraosseous abscesses or tumors, i.e., lesions located within bone, typically presenting with localized pain and radiographic evidence of bone involvement.

In summary, intrabony describes processes or structures located inside bone, with particular relevance in dentistry to osseous defects and dental implants.