08 May Why is titanium used for dental implants?
Dental implants are the ideal solution to restore tooth loss allowing the patient to eat all the foods they wish without any problem; speak clearly; and smile broadly with self-confidence because they no longer suffer from a lack of dentition.
Titanium is a metal used for most implants for its unique ability for bone fusion, minimal chance of rejection, and its history of durability and longevity.
In the 1950’s a Swedish scientist was performing an experiment by placing a titanium rod in the leg of a rabbit. When he went to retrieve the rod, he discovered that the rabbit’s bone had merged so completely with the rod that he could not extricate it. This led to further experimentation; and when ready to try on a human subject it was determined that a much better controlled application would be in the jawbone.
Dental implants have become a commonplace treatment in recent decades for tooth loss. And the reasons to implement tooth implants over other methods of dental prosthesis include:
- Bone loss – when a dental implant is placed it actually helps jaw bone to remain strong. If a tooth just sits on top of the gum tissue, the bone that once held the biological tooth in place begins to deteriorate. Gum tissue can shrink leading to appearance changes; as well as changing how the false tooth functions.
- Comfort and Convenience – Dental implants are surgically placed in gum tissue where they become a permanent part of the patient’s dental anatomy performing much like the roots of a natural tooth. Once healed, the implant has a cosmetic restoration permanently cemented to an abutment affixed to the implant. Much like a dental crown, the patient never has to think about their missing tooth again.
- Longevity – When the first recipient of a dental implant passed away in his 90’s, the implant was still doing its job … and history has proven that this method of tooth replacement is very long lasting.
- Functionality – There is no concern with tooth movement at any time under any circumstance; you can eat anything you please with the assurance that you will not experience slippage.
Your dentist will make a restoration that will match neighboring teeth in size, shape, and color. Once bone has fused to your implant (a process called osseointegration), this final cosmetic step will complete your tooth replacement journey.
Contact our office today to get started on your journey!