The dental implants placed by today’s dentists are thoroughly modern prosthetic devices that can replace lost teeth with beautiful and functional restorations that work and look just like the real thing. However, it took a lot of research and development to get them to that point. People have tried many ways to replace lost teeth over the millennia, and the technology needed to create lifelike implants was finally achieved towards the end of the last century. Here’s a brief look at how dental implants have evolved into a true marvel of dental medicine.
Early Dental Implants
Many cultures throughout history have attempted to implant foreign objects into the jawbone to replace lost teeth. Around 4,000 years ago, Chinese dentists used carved bamboo pegs, and the Egyptians made similar restorative devices out of precious metals, ivory, and gems. In other cases, people attempted to implant shards of seashell or teeth taken from animals or the dead. There is archaeological evidence that some of these devices sufficiently bonded with the jawbone, meaning that they could actually be considered successful dental implants.
Modern Dental Implants
Modern dental implants became possible in 1952 when an orthopedic surgeon named Dr. Per-Ingvar Brånemark discovered that titanium has the remarkably ability to fuse with living bone tissue, a process called osseointegration. This discovery allowed for a multitude of advances in prosthetic medicine, including artificial teeth that are firmly rooted in the jawbone so they can work and feel just like the real thing. After several decades of research and development, dentists were finally able to reliably place dental implants that could provide such incredible benefits as:
- Supporting lifelike dental restorations that are virtually indistinguishable from real teeth.
- Maximizing chewing power.
- Improving speaking ability.
- Maximizing confidence.
- Preserving the health of the jawbone.
- Maintaining a youthful appearance.
- Easy hygiene requirements.
- Lasting for decades if they receive proper care.
- An impressive success rate of over 95% even after ten years if placed by a qualified dentist or oral surgeon.
Today’s dental implants are indisputably the best tooth replacement devices in history. Consulting with your dentist can help you find out if these amazing prosthetic devices are right for you.
About the Practice
Wolfe Dental offers the finest oral healthcare in Cedar Mill. Led by a skilled team of six general dentists and specialists, the staff treats each patient with compassion, courtesy, and exemplary customer service. Areas of expertise include preventive, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry as well as dental implants. To schedule your consultation for dental implants, contact the office online or dial (503) 751-2735.