Astra Tech signs agreement with Swiss university

Astra Tech has signed a dental implant research agreement with the University of Zurich.

The three-year deal will cover research projects in the field of implant dentistry and related sciences, including international training, education and product development.

President and chief executive officer of Astra Tech Peter Selley said the company was “delighted” to be entering the collaboration.

He went on to say: “It gives us access to even more state-of-the-art competence in the field of implant dentistry and material sciences, as well as possibilities to enhance our training and educational activities at an international level.”

Mr Selley added the agreement means the two organisations can “join forces” with expertise in the academic field.

The first project that is part of the collaboration is set to take place at the University of Zurich.

It will be a clinical study to evaluate the use of short implants to avoid the need for bone augmentation procedures – as grafting is a costly procedure, lengthens total treatment time and increases surgical exposure for the patient.

Formed in 1948 as AB Sjukvardsutensilier, Astra Tech has a UK office in Stonehouse, Gloucestershire.

It currently employs around 2,100 employees and owns subsidiaries in 16 markets.