In vivo effects of direct current in the mandible.

Abstract

The application of low level direct current (3 to 5 mua in situ, that is, 50 mua/cm2), within the mandible of mature Beagle dogs results in an increased osteogenesis at the cathode (negative electrode) when compared to responses about nonactive (control) packs within the same dog. The increased osteogenesis suggests a stimulation of cellular activity rather than the electrophoretic migration of cells. Significant differences observed between platinum-iridium and stainless-steel electrodes seem to suggest that faradaic results play little or no role in the osteogenic response at the platinum-iridium cathode. Conversely, at all other electrodes, faradaic reactions compete to some extent with an osteogenic response. Careful consideration of current density and electrode composition must be taken into account when direct current stimulation is to be used.