Although roughly 120 million Americans today are missing at least one tooth, this isn’t a brand new issue. One of the most popular restoration treatments is dental implants, and the earliest signs of them can be dated back to 600 A.D. Fortunately, through modern dental technology and techniques, this procedure has come a long way from using materials like seashells and animal bones to replace teeth! Keep reading to learn how these restorations have evolved throughout the years.
The Evolution of Dental Implants Throughout the Years
Back in ancient times, people used unsanitary materials to solve tooth loss, such as bamboo, precious metals, and even ivory. Due to a lack of anesthetics, however, many of these attempts were both uncomfortable and unsuccessful long-term treatments. It was in the 1950s when these restorations advanced significantly when an orthopedic surgeon discovered that titanium could integrate well with organic bone tissue. Though this was an essential finding, it would take decades to develop the proper solution.
One of the first changes made to dental implants was in their texture, as researchers found that bone tissue preferred growing against titanium that wasn’t smooth-surfaced. They also became increasingly customizable, allowing the restoration to match flawlessly with the color, shape, and size of any remaining teeth. This way patients were able to replace their missing pearly whites with a tooth-colored and natural-looking solution.
5 Essential Benefits of Modern Day Dental Implants
Dental implants have been one of the most effective ways for people to fully restore their teeth over the decades. Not only did they return their smiles, bite, and speech, but they also provided numerous other essential advantages that couldn’t be matched with other restorative options. Thanks to countless innovations and technological advancements, you can expect to enjoy the following advantages with modern dental implants:
- Highly resistant to stains and cavities
- Stimulates the jawbone to prevent facial sagging or deterioration
- Retain a success rate of 95% or more
- Can easily be maintained with regular dental hygiene
- An effective solution that can last 20 years or more
Replacing one or more missing teeth with dental implants can be a life-changing treatment for restoring your smile. Today, you can make the most of safer materials, pain-free treatments, and enduring results. Feel free to speak with your dentist if you’re interested, and they’ll be more than happy to determine if you’re a good candidate for dental implants!
About the Author
Dr. Rachel Maciog received her dental doctorate from the University of Connecticut School of Dental Medicine. She also regularly seeks continuing education through her membership in several organizations like the Connecticut Dental Association and the Academy of General Dentistry. She offers multiple high-quality treatments, including dental implants to restore pearly whites. If you’d like to schedule a consultation for dental implants, visit her website or call her at 860-721-9002.