Modelling the effects of electrostimulation in wound healing : a dental implants scenario

Electrostimulation denotes the application of an electric field (EF) to increase tissue recovery and reduce healing times in wounds [1]. Although these effects are well -documented by experimental evidence [1, 2], the exact un-derlying biological mechanisms influenced by the EF are still matter of discussion. In order to fill the gap, numerical models have gained interest as useful tools for providing information about the interaction paths [3]. In this research we aim at shedding light on the possible EF interaction mechanisms that take place during the bone formation around a dental implant. Our approach allows us to analyse the EF influence during blood coagulation, cell migration, and new bone formation. Numerical results are in agreement with experimental observations, and provide additional information about possible EF interaction mechanisms. The numerical framework is suitable to explore elec-trostimulation in other clinical scenarios, especially those dealing with different types of cells and tissues, other types of electrical stimuli.