History of Dental Implants
Charleston, WV
 A dental implant is a treatment option after the loss of teeth. Endodontists call them implants because they place them in the jawbone. The primary function of a dental implant is to blend with the natural bone and support an artificial tooth. Generally, an endodontist is a dental specialist that will perform the surgery. If you think a dental implant may be an option for you, we here at Revive Dental and Implant Center can help you.
What Are the Parts of a Dental Implant?
A dental implant has three parts that accommodate together. These parts are called the abutment, implant, and crown. The implant is the part that works as the artificial root, and the abutment is the part that connects the implant with the crown. Lastly, the crown is a replacement tooth atop the abutment. Even if it is not a real tooth, the crown is made of porcelain, making it look like a natural tooth in color and shape. Those parts make the dental implant work, and our endodontist will place them in one or multiple surgeries, depending on the case.
The Evolution of Dental Implants
Thousands of years ago, there were different techniques and materials used to replace missing teeth. In China, people had bamboo as a material for dental implants. Something similar happened in Egypt, where people used precious materials. However, the dental field started studying implantology in the 1800s.
In those years, dental professionals needed to overcome one big obstacle. Most of the time, the human body rejects foreign materials. They tried gold, silver, and porcelain, but the human body did not fuse with those. In 1965, an orthopedic surgeon discovered titanium worked as a material for dental implants. After that, specialists published several studies that explained the benefits of titanium and how this fused with the natural bone.
It was a discovery that changed the dental field for good. Since that day, most dental implants are made of titanium now. Centuries ago, the failure rate was very high, but now using titanium as a material is the contrary: the failure rate has never been lower. Still, everyday technology advances, and there are discoveries to be made.
Types Of Dental Implants
Our endodontist will place the dental implants depending on what the patient needs. There are several different types of dental implants available. For instance, a single tooth implant is for when the patient has only one tooth missing. Also called single dental implants, they are a safe option for these patients.
The All-on-4® Treatment Concept dental implants are a solution for when the patient has several teeth missing. The patient will have the upper or lower teeth restored with this option. On the other hand, multiple dental implants are for when the patient has different teeth missing, but the All-on-4 Treatment Method is not an option because the missing teeth are not close together.
If you want to know more about dental implants, you think you may need them, or you want to schedule an appointment with us, you can always call (304) 467-4265 at Revive Dental and Implant Center today. We look forward to hearing from you!
|
