Study of the implant-tissue interface is one of the fundamental issues in implantology, both odontologic and orthopedic. The characteristics of this interface will influence the success or failure of an implant. The aim of the present study was to evaluate histomorphometrically the capacity of different metals to osseointegrate employing laminar implants of zirconium, titanium, aluminum, and zirconium coated with diamond-like carbon. The experimental model herein allowed for the quantitative evaluation of the tissue-implant interface for different metals. The implants were placed in the tibiae of Wistar rats under anesthesia and allowed to remain in situ for a 30-day period. The interfaces of the zirconium and diamond-like coated zirconium implants exhibited better responses than the interface of titanium implants. Aluminum produced a local toxic effect, evidenced by osteoid formation. Keywords: biocompatibility, experimental implants, histomorphometry, interface, osseointegration