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Dallas Center for Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery

History Of Dental Implants

The history of dental implants is an interesting story in the chapter of oral surgery procedures. At Dallas Center for Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, we use the most up-to-date, advanced approaches to implementing dental implants as a permanent solution for tooth loss. 

history of dental implants

Dental implants are screw-like titanium posts that are used to replace tooth roots. They serve as a sturdy base for permanent or removable replacement teeth that are designed to match your natural teeth.

Dental implants can be fused to the jawbone over time and feel just like natural teeth in the long run. They allow you to eat and speak normally without any difficulty.

  • One of the earliest versions of dental implants was used in ancient China in approximately 2000 BC. It was a usual practice to replace missing teeth with carved bamboo pegs.

    The first ever recorded metal tooth replacement was found from the body of an Egyptian king who ruled around 1000 BC. A copper peg was found to be hammered into his upper jawbone. However, it is likely that it was attached inside his mouth after his death, because the procedure would have been extremely painful at that time when anesthetics had not been invented.

    In 300 BC, a fabricated iron tooth was found in a Celtic grave. The false tooth is believed to be hammered in place after death for aesthetic reasons in this case as well.

    Only 2000 years back, people used to attempt to replace teeth using a tooth from an animal or someone belonging to a lower social class. These implants were mostly rejected as they would be vulnerable to decay and infection.

    Around 600 AD, Mayans used to fix shell pieces into the lower jaw, which is the closest evidence of the first ever dental implants. According to the radiographs of Mayan mandibles during the 1970s, bone growth around the implants was similar to contemporary implants.

    In 1886, a doctor fixed a porcelain crown on top of a platinum disc, which turned out to be an unsuccessful experiment. This was because the body tends to reject foreign elements. For a successful dental implant, it is important for the implant material to fuse to the jawbone.

  • Contemporary dental implants were actually created by accident. In 1952, Swedish researcher, Per-Ingvar Branemark, observed that he was unable to remove a titanium piece he had placed in a rabbit’s leg to study how blood circulation impacts bone healing.

    He found out that the titanium had bonded with the bone and was unable to get it detached. This special trait of bone integration is known as osseointegration. The discovery regarding titanium made Branemark conclude that the human body was compatible with the long-term presence of titanium, making it viable for use as a base for artificial teeth.

    Today, with rapid advancements in dental technology, implants can be created in a variety of shapes and sizes to match your natural teeth and dental implants now last longer than before. The surfaces of contemporary dental implants offer a much more natural look and feel as compared to their predecessors. If you have a tooth missing and require an implant to restore your smile, call 972-733-0414 today to schedule your appointment.

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Oral health is often overlooked in the realm of overall well-being, but its significance cannot be overstated. Beyond just maintaining a dazzling smile, prioritizing oral health encompasses a spectrum of benefits, from preventing serious health issues to enhancing confidence and quality of life. Key procedures like jaw surgerydental implantswisdom teeth removal, and cosmetic surgery play pivotal roles in this regard, highlighting the importance of proactive dental care.

One of the cornerstone aspects of oral health is preventive care, which includes regular dental check-ups, cleanings, and screenings for early detection of any issues. These routine visits not only help in maintaining good oral hygiene but also serve as opportunities for dentists to identify and address any potential problems before they escalate. Neglecting such preventive measures can lead to the need for more invasive interventions like oral surgery. Oral surgery encompasses a wide range of procedures, including wisdom teeth removal, corrective jaw surgery, and dental implant placement. These interventions are crucial for addressing issues such as impacted wisdom teeth, misaligned jaws, or missing teeth.

Dental implants, for instance, have revolutionized the field of restorative dentistry by providing a long-term solution for replacing missing teeth. Unlike traditional dentures or bridges, dental implants offer a durable and natural-looking alternative that restores both function and aesthetics. However, the success of dental implant procedures depends greatly on maintaining optimal oral health. Poor oral hygiene can increase the risk of complications such as infection or implant failure, underscoring the importance of regular oral care practices.

Moreover, wisdom teeth removal is another common oral surgery procedure that is often necessary to prevent various complications. Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, typically emerge in late adolescence or early adulthood. However, due to limited space in the mouth, these teeth often become impacted, leading to pain, infection, or damage to adjacent teeth. Therefore, timely removal of impacted wisdom teeth is crucial for preventing such issues and preserving overall oral health.

In addition to addressing functional concerns, oral health also plays a significant role in one’s appearance and self-esteem. Cosmetic dentistry procedures, such as teeth whitening, veneers, or orthodontic treatments, can enhance the aesthetics of the smile, boosting confidence and self-image. However, achieving optimal results in cosmetic dentistry often requires a foundation of good oral health. For instance, gum disease or untreated cavities can compromise the outcome of cosmetic procedures, emphasizing the need for comprehensive dental care.

Furthermore, maintaining oral health is not just about preventing dental problems; it is also linked to broader health outcomes. Research has established connections between oral health and various systemic conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory infections. Poor oral hygiene can serve as a gateway for bacteria to enter the bloodstream, contributing to inflammation and increasing the risk of systemic diseases. By prioritizing oral health, individuals can mitigate these risks and support their overall well-being.

The importance of prioritizing oral health cannot be overstated, with implications ranging from preventive care to complex surgical interventions. Procedures like oral surgery, dental implants, wisdom teeth removal, and cosmetic dentistry underscore the multifaceted nature of oral health and its impact on quality of life. By embracing regular dental care practices and seeking timely interventions when needed, individuals can safeguard their oral health and enjoy the benefits of a healthy, radiant smile for years to come.

We are here to help you achieve a healthier, more beautiful smile!