This course explores osseointegration, or creating a stable bone anchorage of an oral implanted metal tooth to bone. It discusses why this approach is better than soft-tissue anchorages and helps the dental professional gain an understanding of the working definition of osseointegration, the important factors for reliable bone anchorage of an oral implant, and the biocompatible materials for osseointegration. Also discussed are how physical implant design and surface characteristics play a role in bone tissue integration and how host bone surgical technique and load consideration affect osseointegration. Authors: Joseph Paston, D.D.S., M. P. H.; Lori Trokanski, CDA