When you ask your dentist about your best options for filling in the gaps left by your missing teeth, they’re likely to point you toward dental implants. This tooth replacement option has actually been around in one form or another for a very long time, but it took quite a while for it to grow into the reliable smile-rebuilding treatment that it is today. Below is a quick overview of the history of dental implants and how they have evolved over the years.
Dental Implants in Ancient Times
The earliest dental implants date back as far as 4,000 years ago in ancient China. Back then, people would have carved bamboo pegs inserted into their jaws to replace their missing teeth. Other ancient civilizations adopted similar practices but used different materials. For instance, the ancient Mayans made replacement teeth out of carved stones and seashell fragments. Unfortunately, these primitive dental implants were unable to properly integrate with the jaw, and as a result, they would fail.
Dental Implant Experimentation in the Early Modern Period
Over time, people would continue to experiment with the idea of dental implants. From the 1500s to the 1800s, many scientists in Europe created implant posts made out of gold and other metal alloys. However, it would take quite a while before the first real steps toward modern dental implants were made.
The Invention of Titanium Dental Implants
In 1952, Dr. Per-Ingvar Branemark made what would prove to be a pivotal discovery. At the time, he was studying bone healing and regeneration. As part of said studies, he had placed a piece of titanium into the femur of a rabbit. But when the time came to remove the titanium, he couldn’t because it had formed a permanent bond with the surrounding bone tissue.
This discovery ultimately led Dr. Branemark to place the first titanium dental implant in 1965. Once Dr. Branemark’s research became fully accepted by the wider scientific community in 1982, many dentists began using titanium implant posts to replace missing teeth from the roots up.
Modern Dental Implants
Nowadays, titanium is still the preferred material for making dental implants thanks to its highly compatible nature. However, the process of placing implant posts has become more refined over time thanks to advanced technology. CT/cone beam scanners are invaluable for planning dental implant surgery, as they allow the dentist to determine exactly where the implant posts need to be inserted in the patient’s mouth.
With their high success rate and unique benefits, modern dental implants can be an excellent choice for rebuilding your smile. If you think you might be a good candidate for dental implants, don’t hesitate to schedule a consultation with your dentist.
About the Author
Dr. Ryan Johnson is a proud graduate of the University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine, and he is currently working on earning a Fellowship with the Academy of General Dentistry. At Jacksonville Dental Excellence, he offers start-to-finish dental implant procedures for the convenience of his patients. If you have been thinking of rebuilding your smile with sturdy implant posts, you can schedule an appointment with Dr. Johnson by visiting his website or calling (904) 895-4536.