History of Dental Implants
Dentist Charlotte, NC
Early Developments in Dental Implantology
Dentistry has seen a huge amount of change and improvement since its inception. Apparently, people have always been interested in keeping their oral abilities and their smiles at their best. Understanding the important role of our teeth has ensured that dental technologies keep seeing improvements. Dental implants have also come a long way to be one of the most effective and versatile restorative prosthetics. Our professionals at Myers Park Dental Partners recognize this progress as we acknowledge the history of dental implants.
Before learning about the history of dental implants, it makes sense to understand what they are and why they are needed. Patients who have suffered tooth loss whether by extensive decay, late-stage periodontal disease, or injury oftentimes are at a loss as to the best artificial tooth solutions available. Dental implants could be just the solution they are looking for. Dental implants restore the lost teeth and help to keep the jaw bones strong. Dental implants are permanent and offer an excellent solution. Implants can provide the base or foundation for numerous dental appliances such as crowns, bridges, and dentures. One of the best things about dental implants is the fact that they are permanent and when crowns are used, they look and feel like natural teeth which can be brushed and flossed.
Historical Background of Dental Implants
Dental implants have been in crude existence for as long as 4,000 years. Around that era, people used pegs taken from bamboo to replace missing teeth. These pegs were designed and carved in China, and were attached to the jawbone. A millennium later, a king in Egypt used a copper peg to fill the gap from a missing upper tooth. Even though this was placed after the king died, it led to other improvisation of implant technology. Around 2,000 years ago, many civilizations began using animal teeth to replace missing teeth. Archeologists have turned skulls that had artificial tooth-like replacements in them.
Notable Innovations and Designs
While scientists and researchers kept trying new things to achieve the perfect restorative solution, they kept having issues with what the human body could accommodate. The body continuously rejected most of the foreign materials that were tried as implants. Sometime in the 18th century, some attempts were made with a fusion of gold and alloy as materials for implants. Initially, they failed to yield favorable results, but they became the turning point for more productive results in the future.
After many doctors tried materials such as silver, porcelain or even platinum, they failed to integrate with the bone. In the early 1900's, two doctor brothers named Moses and Akvin Strock attempted to use vitallium as implants. This resulted in fixtures that lasted longer than any other at the time, securing them a place in the hall of fame.
In 1952, Doctor Per-Ingvar Branemar made some amazing discoveries. He was an orthopedic surgeon and professor. He discovered how titanium chambers fused easily with the bones of a rabbit from one of his studies. Thus, he discovered osseointegration, and in 1965, he went on to place the first successful dental implant in a living patient, using titanium materials. The resulting implant lasted for 40 years.
The Emergence of Modern Dental Implants
From that moment on, dental implants kept breaking new records with high success rates. Implants were tried in different shapes to suit different jawbone areas and guarantee durability. Newer technologies have also been employed to quicken the procedure and ensure precision from consultation to finish. Today implants have been entirely fine-tuned to produce esthetically pleasing results that also require low maintenance and guarantee longevity. Dental implants have come a long way, and are still seeing new enhancements to give patients their desired smile and restore their oral capacities.
More on Osseointegration
The term "osseointegration" originates from Greek and Latin, translating to "bone" and "make whole." During a dental implant procedure, a titanium root is inserted into the jawbone, aiming for intimate contact between implant and bone. This ensures stability and long-term integration.
Following implant placement, osseointegration begins as jawbone cells envelop the implant, securing it firmly. This natural fusion process typically spans six weeks to six months, depending on individual jaw and overall health. Similar to bone fracture healing, osseointegration is pivotal in various medical procedures.
Dental implants may feature a hydroxyapatite coating to promote bone growth, facilitating fusion. Surface roughening aids in implant-bone fusion, enhancing integration. During osseointegration, gentle care is vital to prevent implant displacement, ensuring successful bonding.
Tooth loss triggers jawbone resorption due to decreased stimulation. Immediate dental implants prevent bone loss, preserving facial structure. However, if bone deterioration occurs, a bone graft may precede implant placement, halting further decline and restoring optimal jaw function.
Evolution of Implant Materials and Techniques
Dental implant materials nowadays include titanium and sometimes zirconia is used. Titanium is biocompatible, meaning it is a material that is well tolerated by the body, and very rarely causes allergic reactions. Titanium easily integrates with the surrounding bone tissue in the jawbone, providing a long-lasting and permanent tooth replacement.
Advancements in Implant Design and Technology
Dental implants nowadays are made up of three parts. The implant post is the base of the structure and is surgically placed in the jawbone. After the jawbone heals, a connector, named an abutment, is placed on top of the implant post. The third, and final piece of the implant, is a dental crown. This is the visible portion of your implant and resembles a new tooth.
The Impact of Dental Implants on Modern Dentistry
Dental Implants are the ultimate tooth replacement solution. They represent the pinnacle of tooth replacement solutions, closely replicating natural teeth, including the root. Renowned for their exceptional durability and longevity, dental implants boast unparalleled functionality and a remarkably lifelike appearance. By simulating tooth roots, dental implants afford a stable foundation for various restorations, ensuring optimal chewing efficiency and aesthetics while preventing bone density loss in the jaw.
Dental Implants at Myers Park Dental Partners
To enjoy the many benefits of dental implants, let Myers Park Dental Partners replace your missing teeth with these restorations. Call us today at (704) 332-2532 to learn more, or book your consultation. |
