Dental implants have been used since ancient times. Archaeologists have found shells implanted in jawbones found in prehistoric graveyards. However, modern technology dates from the early 1950s, when Dr. Leonard Linkow began to use fixed, root-like stabilizers for tooth replacements.
An implant is similar to an actual root of a tooth in that it is fixed solidly in the jaw bone. Early technology used a flat blade inserted into jaw or a device attached to bone by a screw. Today almost every conventional implant is made of titanium and fuses to bone by the process of ossification. This is similar to the procedure used in hip and knee replacements.
An implant can serve as a solid base for a crown, which is placed after the device is securely ossified. These devices can also be used to stabilize dentures or to anchor a bridge when adjacent teeth are missing or too loose to do the job. Mini-implants of less than conventional diameter are often used for denture stabilization. An orthodontist can also use the technology to reinforce teeth that are being shifted to correct or adjust the bite.
The usual material used for implanted devices is titanium in acceptable grades of purity. On-going research is bringing forth new titanium alloys and various forms of ceramics as alternative materials.
Dentists can perform the procedure in the United States, and many do so after getting training sponsored by manufacturers of implant devices. General or local anesthesia is used in regular dental offices. Oral surgeons also offer the procedure on an outpatient basis. Training is more closely regulated in the United Kingdom, where a postgraduate course required before this procedure is authorized.
Care must be taken to avoid damaging sinus cavities or nerves, and the shape of the jaw must be correctly assessed for proper placement of the root-like devices. Implanting can be done at the same time as a tooth is extracted, with the device placed into the fresh cavity.
These stabilizers are wonderful for those who wish to avoid dentures but have teeth that are too damaged or weakened to save. They also help those who already have dentures but find them too loose for comfort. Many millions of patients have taken advantage of this technology.
Dental implants in the modern sense have changed the way dentistry handles tooth loss and replacement. Go online or ask your dentist for more information if you think they might make your life better.
An implant is similar to an actual root of a tooth in that it is fixed solidly in the jaw bone. Early technology used a flat blade inserted into jaw or a device attached to bone by a screw. Today almost every conventional implant is made of titanium and fuses to bone by the process of ossification. This is similar to the procedure used in hip and knee replacements.
An implant can serve as a solid base for a crown, which is placed after the device is securely ossified. These devices can also be used to stabilize dentures or to anchor a bridge when adjacent teeth are missing or too loose to do the job. Mini-implants of less than conventional diameter are often used for denture stabilization. An orthodontist can also use the technology to reinforce teeth that are being shifted to correct or adjust the bite.
The usual material used for implanted devices is titanium in acceptable grades of purity. On-going research is bringing forth new titanium alloys and various forms of ceramics as alternative materials.
Dentists can perform the procedure in the United States, and many do so after getting training sponsored by manufacturers of implant devices. General or local anesthesia is used in regular dental offices. Oral surgeons also offer the procedure on an outpatient basis. Training is more closely regulated in the United Kingdom, where a postgraduate course required before this procedure is authorized.
Care must be taken to avoid damaging sinus cavities or nerves, and the shape of the jaw must be correctly assessed for proper placement of the root-like devices. Implanting can be done at the same time as a tooth is extracted, with the device placed into the fresh cavity.
These stabilizers are wonderful for those who wish to avoid dentures but have teeth that are too damaged or weakened to save. They also help those who already have dentures but find them too loose for comfort. Many millions of patients have taken advantage of this technology.
Dental implants in the modern sense have changed the way dentistry handles tooth loss and replacement. Go online or ask your dentist for more information if you think they might make your life better.
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Check out our site for details about the benefits of receiving dental bone grafting. You can also find additional information about the benefits of modern dental implants.
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