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Modern dental implants are amazing restorative devices that look, work, and feel just like real teeth, and they can potentially last for life if the patient take excellent care of them. However, people have tried many ways of replacing lost teeth throughout history, and primitive dental implants were not as reliable or functional as today’s models. Here’s a brief guide to how implants have evolved to become the best way to complete a smile after tooth loss.
The Dawn of Dental Implants
Evidence of early dental implants has been found at archaeological sites in Asia, Africa, Europe, South America, and the Pacific Islands. In these cases, an implant usually consisted of an animal tooth, foreign human tooth, or a carved piece of bone or seashell driven into the patient’s empty socket. While these devices were not reliable, researchers have identified cases of the implants successfully bonding with the patient’s jawbone, creating a functional implant.
When Reliable Implants Became Possible
In the 1950s, a Swedish orthopedic surgeon discovered that titanium has the remarkable property of fusing with bone tissue after being surgically inserted into it. This finding made it possible for all sorts of prosthetic devices to be mounted directly on or in the skeletal system, which made replacement limbs more lifelike and practical than ever before. The dental community applied this concept to tooth replacements, resulting in implants that could reliably bind with the jawbone to enjoy longevity and chewing power comparable to real teeth.
Dental Implants Are Better Than Ever Before
Today’s dental implants boast a range of benefits than traditional dentures and bridges cannot match. Since they are fused with the jawbone through the natural process of osseointegration, they have the sturdy foundation they need to exert maximum chewing force and last for a lifetime if they receive excellent care. To make things even better, the restorations mounted upon them are made from lifelike porcelain that allows them to look exactly like real teeth. They also prevent jawbone atrophy and enjoy a success rate of over 95%.
Don’t let tooth loss make you anxious about showing off your smile. Consulting with your dentist can help you find the best way to complete your grin.
About the Practice
Utah Implants & Periodontics offers the finest oral health services in Salt Lake City. Led by Drs. Rob Wood and Al Long, the staff treats each patient with courtesy, respect, and exemplary customer service. Areas of expertise include periodontal therapy, dental implants, and sedation services. To book your consultation for dental implants, contact the office online or dial (801) 322-5032.