For some fun facts about dental implants, check out this blog from Hallock Family Dental.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants function as synthetic posts or anchors, acting as substitutes for natural tooth roots. Through a dental implant surgical procedure, these posts replace damaged or missing teeth by integrating artificial teeth that closely emulate both the look and function of real teeth. They also provide stability for dentures and bridgework in cases where natural solutions fall short. Unlike removable dentures, implants and crowns are permanent fixtures, eliminating the need for nightly removal or the use of adhesives to secure them in place.
During the surgical intervention, dental implants are precisely positioned to mimic the role of absent tooth roots. Constructed from titanium, the implant material fuses with the jawbone, preventing any shifting and potential bone damage that could arise with fixed bridgework or dentures. An essential benefit lies in the fact that the synthetic materials of implants are not susceptible to decay, a contrast to natural teeth that are supportive of regular bridgework.
The journey of dental implant surgery revolves around two crucial elements: the specific implant type and the condition of the jawbone. Implants offer robust support for your fresh set of teeth. The healing procedure entails the seamless integration of the surrounding bone with the implant. As this bone fusion requires time, the comprehensive process might span multiple weeks or even months to reach fruition.
The Early History Of Dental Implants
Unveiling the historical usage of dental implants is undeniably captivating, with roots extending as far back as 600 AD. The concept of replacing lost teeth for the purpose of restoration is far from being a recent innovation. Traces of ancient dental implant usage can be unearthed in history, notably within the Mayan civilization, where early instances have been unearthed. Particularly intriguing is the case of a Mayan woman who had tooth-like shell fragments affixed to her jaw, offering an early glimpse into the realm of dental implant experimentation. Furthermore, historical records indicate the utilization of various alternatives, such as stones, to address tooth loss.
As time journeyed forward, the domain of dentistry experienced a continuous evolution. In 1790, an American dentist named Josiah Flagg made a remarkable contribution that propelled its advancement. Displaying remarkable ingenuity, Flagg ingeniously transformed a plain wooden chair, giving rise to the inaugural specialized chair designed exclusively for dental patients. This pioneering adaptation boasted a modifiable headrest and a meticulously crafted arm extension to securely grasp dental instruments. Flagg’s innovation stands as a pivotal milestone in the ongoing progression of dental care.
From 1937 To The Modern Era
A significant breakthrough reshaped the landscape of dentistry in 1937, marked by the successful insertion of the inaugural screw-type dental implant. This pioneering accomplishment constituted a substantial milestone, paving the way for subsequent strides in the field of implantology.
The year 1951 witnessed a momentous event as a collective of forward-thinking dentists came together to establish the American Academy of Implant Dentistry. Their primary aim was to nurture advancement and ingenuity through collaborative efforts, sharing their wealth of knowledge and expertise in the domain of dental implants.
A turning point in the evolution of dental implants unfolded in 1952, owing to an accidental revelation made by Swedish orthopedic surgeon P.I. Branemark during his research pursuits. Branemark happened upon the remarkable revelation that titanium possesses an inherent affinity for integrating with bone tissue. This extraordinary phenomenon indicated that titanium implants could harmoniously merge with living tissue without rejection. Motivated by this discovery, Branemark dedicated his endeavors to fashioning a comprehensive dental implant system.
In the contemporary era, modern dental implants fulfill a dual role, serving not only as substitutes for missing teeth but also as crucial guardians of natural bone. By simulating bone growth, the replacement tooth within a dental implant averts the degeneration of bone, a potential outcome resulting from the absence of proper stimulation caused by a missing tooth. This safeguarding of natural bone emerges as one of the notable advantages bestowed by the cutting-edge technology of present-day dental implants.
The Benefits Of Contemporary Dental Implants
Over the span of more than three decades, contemporary dental implants have exhibited exceptional success as an answer to diverse dental requirements. Within the United States alone, over three million individuals have already enjoyed the advantages of dental implants, and this figure steadily increases by an additional half a million annually as more individuals recognize the benefits offered by this rehabilitative dental procedure.
When executed by a proficient and seasoned dental implant practitioner, dental implant surgery is hailed as one of the safest and most dependable procedures on a global scale. Its history of reliability has gained extensive acknowledgment, prompting an escalating number of insurance companies in the US to extend coverage for dental implants, acknowledging their enduring advantages.
Although dental implants themselves are impervious to decay, they still necessitate routine oral hygiene practices, scheduled examinations, and professional cleanings, akin to natural teeth. With appropriate care, dental implants can persist for several decades, delivering a robust and trustworthy solution. In contrast, alternate options in restorative dentistry like bridges or dentures frequently require replacement every 5-10 years.
The extended lifespan and minimal upkeep demands of dental implants render them an enticing selection for individuals in search of an enduring and uncomplicated resolution to rejuvenate their smiles and oral well-being.
Trust Your Smile In The Hands Of Hallock Family Dental
The team at Hallock Family Dental looks forward to helping your family maintain healthy teeth, gums, and mouths through every stage of life. Call our Allen location at 972-390-7200 or our McKinney location at 972-547-1775 to learn more about how we can help you and your family have the healthiest, brightest smiles possible.
