29
May
Dental Implants Throughout History
500,000 people every year are choosing an alternative to bridges and dentures to replace their missing teeth. Dental implants are the preferred solution to treat tooth loss because they provide predictable results. A dental implant is the only method to replace both the root and crown, creating a nearly perfect replica of a real tooth. Although they might seem like a relatively new treatment, evidence of early dental implants date back to ancient civilizations. Here’s how the first dental implants paved the way for the successful results of today’s most effective treatment for tooth loss.
Dental Implants Throughout History
An incomplete smile isn’t a modern concern. Archeologists have found evidence of ancient Mayans trying their hands at tooth replacement by hammering objects into the mouths of the deceased in 600 A.D. Seashells and carved stones were embedded into jawbones; however, it was done post mortem because lack of anesthetic would have caused significant pain.
Throughout the centuries, other civilizations used human and animal teeth to recreate the entire tooth structure. Although these methods weren’t successful, they were the earliest forms of dental implants.
Development of Modern Dental Implants
It wasn’t until the 1950s that a Swedish orthopedic surgeon discovered that revolutionized tooth replacement methods forever. He found titanium integrates with human bone through a process called osseointegration. The biocompatible material is strong and poses a little risk of allergic reactions.
For over 40 years, titanium has been the go-to material used for implant posts. Improvements to the posts have also occurred, like roughened surfaces to encourage better osseointegration. This has shortened the healing time from many months to only a few weeks.
Advanced Technology and Techniques
Biological materials aren’t the only development that has led to dental implants’ high success rate. Advanced technology has taken the guesswork out of the diagnostic, planning, and placement processes of treatment.
A CT scan provides highly detailed images of the oral structures to determine a patient’s candidacy for the procedure. The information can also be used to pinpoint the exact locations for the implant posts. Computer-guided placement surgery ensures the posts are placed with pinpoint accuracy to minimize the risk of dental implant failure. From start to finish, technological advancements create the foundation necessary to ensure a dental implant thrives for decades.
Benefit from the Best Tooth Replacement
Dental implants have over a 95% success rate and are proven to last for 30 years or longer with the right aftercare, like brushing and flossing. While early tooth replacement methods were a little barbaric, they lead the way for the creation of the next best thing to a natural tooth. You can replace your missing teeth for good using the most advanced solution for tooth loss.
About Dr. Adelina Duka
Dr. Duka has earned dental degrees from both the Boston University Goldman School of Dental Medicine and the University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Carol Davila” Bucharest. She has advanced training in the most complex procedures, including dental implants. If you’re ready to replace your missing teeth, request an appointment online or call our office at (508) 665-2016.