24 Jan How Dental Implants Have Revolutionized Treatment For Tooth Loss
In the past several decades, patients who want to replace missing teeth have been able to access a solution that is more durable and reliable than conventional prosthetics: dental implants. These devices replace both the roots and the crowns of missing teeth for a structurally complete option.
Dental implants outperform conventional appliances, like dental bridges and dentures, in a number of important ways. Therefore, patients who are exploring their treatment options after tooth loss should always consult with an oral surgeon to see if dental implants are a possibility in their case.
A Brief History Of Dental Implants
The foundation of dental implant technology was discovered accidentally in the mid 1950s, when a Swedish scientist found that a small piece of titanium inserted into an animal’s bone structure became a fixture in the bone and could not be removed later.
By the 1980s, this technology had become reliable and predictable enough that the first dental implants could be used to replace missing teeth. In the decades since, dental implants have been further fine-tuned for optimal treatment outcomes in cases of tooth loss.
Dental Implant Technology: How It Works
Dental implants can be osseointegrated, or incorporated into bone tissue, because they are made of titanium, which is a biocompatible material. In order for osseointegration to be successful after the oral surgeon places the dental implants, the patient must have adequate bone at the implant site.
After the dental implants have been fully osseointegrated, they can be used to support a single crown, bridge or denture, depending on the patient’s needs. With proper maintenance, an implant-supported appliance can remain in place for decades.
The Benefits Of A Structurally Complete Tooth Replacement
Patients who work with an oral surgeon to get dental implants gain a number of advantages from the treatment, including the following:
- Greater peace of mind from a secure-fitting appliance
- Better longevity due to preservation of the jawbone
- Improved chewing function with the extra support of jawbone tissue
- Minimal impact to surrounding teeth
These are just a few of the many benefits of dental implants. There are many more that may be pertinent to your case.
Are you looking for a sturdy, stable tooth replacement after tooth loss? Visit Central Oklahoma Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Associates for a dental implant evaluation to learn if this might be the right treatment for you.