With tooth loss a common issue many Americans face, your dentist likely offers dental implants in Norwalk as they are the most successful dental prosthetic. Now, more than 500,000 are placed each year due to their high success rate of over 95%. While they have only recently become a popular solution, they hold a long history in dentistry. Although several advancements have been made over the years, you can first see their use dating back 4000 years.
History of Dental Implants
More than 4000 years ago in ancient China, missing teeth were replaced using bamboo pegs. 1000 years later, they were diversified by the Egyptians with the use of a copper peg that was hammered into the jawbone. Although the procedure was only used after death, it led to an amazing breakthrough as it was the first metal form of the tooth replacement.
In addition to this discovery, a 2300-year-old iron tooth was discovered in a Celtic grave. Again, it was used post death. It was not until the 18th century when researchers began to explore the idea of replacing missing teeth after they were extracted and not waiting until death to restore a smile. At this time, experiments began using alloys and golds, although the results of their use were not very promising.
It was not until 1886 when a doctor attached a porcelain crown to a platinum disk that is was discovered that a metal was needed to allow the body to fuse to the post, known as osteointegration. Using this knowledge, titanium began to be used because it is biocompatible and widely accepted by the body.
However, the success of the material was discovered by accident. In 1952, an orthopedic surgeon found that he could not remove a titanium cylinder that had been placed into a rabbit femur because the bone had fused to it. After this occurred, he successfully placed his first titanium dental implant into a human volunteer in 1965.
Modern Dental Implants
The success of the first dental implant post created a pivotal movement in tooth replacement options. Over the years several advancements have been made to ensure the success of the procedure. Now, they are composed of a high-grade titanium alloy screw that features roughened edges to promote the body’s ability to fuse to it. In addition to the material used, the correct placement of the implant posts has been perfected while also changing the design of the posts to allow the attachment of a crown.
Complete Your Smile with Dental Implants
As the most predictable and successful form of tooth replacement, your dentist in 44857 can complete your smile with dental implants.
About Sommers Family Dentistry
Sommers Family Dentistry strives to deliver excellent dental care through the highest of standards. By embracing the latest advancements, they provide an array of specialty services, including dental implants. If you are interested in treating your tooth loss with a successful solution, contact Sommers Family Dentistry today to schedule a consultation.
