Restore Your Smile Naturally In Greenville, SC
Dental implants can replace missing teeth in a number of different ways. When a patient only needs to replace one or two teeth, a porcelain crown is cemented onto the dental implant. If patients are missing several or all of their teeth, we can use a dental implant to retain a removable partial denture or complete denture. The dental implant allows the denture to “snap” into the implants so that the denture stays in place. Dental implants can be life-changing procedures for our patients, so we are excited about the possibilities they can provide.
Dr. Adam Carraway helps plan customized implant treatments. He collaborates with patients to provide restorative dental care tailored to their specific needs. Dental implants offer many benefits to patients who require more structure and balance in their smiles. Read on to learn more about how implant treatment can help restore missing teeth.
How Do Dental Implants Work?
Dental implants are an excellent solution for replacing missing teeth due to decay, injury, or other factors. They start with a titanium post surgically implanted in the jawbone, which acts as an anchor for replacement teeth or teeth – exactly like your natural teeth! Once the base is securely in place, it allows artificial tooth/teeth replacement to look and feel like your own natural teeth. Typically the affected areas are replaced with a single dental implant or multiple, depending on the quantity and structure of missing teeth. With diligent oral care and regular maintenance by trained professionals, dental implants can provide a stable foundation and longevity lasting many years – ensuring you enjoy years of beautiful smiles ahead!
Artificial Root
The artificial root is the titanium post surgically implanted in the jawbone, providing a secure foundation. The implant body is typically placed three to six months after healing of the extraction site. The implant can take this long to fuse with the surrounding bone and gums, and healthy bone needs to surround the implant body. Typically two to three millimeters of bone are required around the implant. If inadequate bone is present, the dentist increases the height or width of the existing bone by performing a bone graft.
Abutment
The abutment is the connector between the artificial root and the crown providing stability for the crown. It is usually made of titanium or zirconia and can be customized based on individual needs. The abutment is typically custom-made for the patient, but the dentist sometimes uses a prefabricated abutment.
Crown
The porcelain crown is the final component to restore a dental implant; it looks and feels like your natural teeth in size, shape, and color. It is securely attached to the abutment providing a long-lasting smile. Using a high-quality dental lab when fabricating a crown is essential to ensure the best results and a natural appearance. Our clinic has highly trained professionals who understand the importance of dental aesthetics and are committed to providing quality care.
Benefits of Impacts
Dental implants provide many benefits to those who need tooth replacements. Patients can chew and eat with greater comfort and stability with dental implants than with traditional bridges or dentures. Implants can last many years—some even a lifetime! Additionally, implants can help preserve natural bone structure by allowing the jaw to remain strong since the implant is implanted directly into the bone. Finally, dental implants give a more natural look than other tooth replacements. They imitate a natural-looking smile without being noticeable as an artificial replacement. Our office in Greenville, SC, is committed to providing quality dental services prioritizing patient well-being and satisfaction.
Dental Implants Compared to Other Options
Treatment options for replacing a missing tooth include a removable partial denture, a dental bridge, and a dental implant. Many people find that dental implants are superior to the alternative options because dental implants are more similar to natural teeth than the alternatives.
Dental implants:
- Provide long-lasting treatment
- Look and feel like natural teeth
- Withstand biting forces of the jaw
- Prevent further bone loss
Dental implants are permanently fixed in the mouth and do not affect the natural teeth next to the implant like a dental bridge. Similar to a natural tooth, dental implants have a “root” and a “crown.” For these reasons, many patients find dental implants the best option; however, every case is unique, so we recommend a consultation with our dental team before deciding which tooth replacement option you would like to pursue.
The Process of Getting Implants
The human mouth is full of many types of bacteria. Some of the bacteria are helpful, while others can be harmful. When decay-causing bacteria react with sugars in the foods and drinks you consume, they produce acids that eat away at your teeth. Weakened enamel is vulnerable to dental decay, which begins as unnoticeable damage and gradually progresses to the inner and softer layers of the tooth. Considering how dental decay occurs, certain factors increase the risk of the health problem.
How Long Do Implants Last?
Dental implants can last a lifetime when cared for properly. The dental literature has shown a success rate of up to 97% after five years. However, it’s important to note that implant success can be affected by several risk factors.
Risk Factors that Affect Implants
Dental Periodontal disease
Periodontal disease is the loss of supporting bone and gum tissue around teeth. If bone and gum tissue recedes from implants, the implant can be lost, similar to how gum diseases can cause tooth loss. Good oral hygiene is a must for successful implant health. Regular brushing and flossing remove plaque so that implants remain healthy. Regular cleanings at the dentist’s office ensure proper care of your dental implants and the prevention of bone loss.
Diabetes
Patients with diabetes must be careful when getting dental implants, as high blood sugar levels can lead to a higher risk of implant failure. It is essential for these patients to properly manage their diabetes before and during the course of treatment.
Tobacco use
Smoking increases the risk of implant failure because tobacco reduces the amount of blood flow in the jaw bone. Blood flow is essential for implant integration, and tobacco can reduce the success of this integration. can last a lifetime when cared for properly. The dental literature has shown a success rate of up to 97% after five years. However, it’s important to note that implant success can be affected by several risk factors.
The History of Dental Implants
The concept of replacing missing teeth with artificial ones dates back centuries, reflecting humanity’s enduring pursuit of dental restoration. The journey towards modern dental implants encompasses a rich history of experimentation, innovation, and the convergence of scientific knowledge and technological advancements.
Ancient Beginnings:
The origins of dental implants can be traced to ancient civilizations, where rudimentary attempts to replace lost teeth were made using a variety of materials. Archeological findings from ancient Egypt indicate the use of carved ivory and precious metals to create dental prosthetics, while evidence from ancient China points to bamboo pegs as tooth replacements. Similarly, the ancient Mayans utilized seashells and stones to fill the gaps in their smiles. These early endeavors, driven by necessity and resourcefulness, laid the foundation for future developments.
Pioneering Efforts:
As civilizations evolved, so did the methods for tooth replacement. In the 18th century, the advent of modern dentistry prompted renewed interest in prosthetic teeth. French surgeon Pierre Fauchard is credited with designing a framework of wire to anchor teeth made from natural materials. However, it was not until the 19th century that significant strides were made.
The Turning Point – 19th Century:
The 19th century marked a turning point in the history of dental implants. Dentists and inventors began experimenting with various materials and techniques to create stable and functional replacements for missing teeth. In 1809, Italian surgeon Gaspare Tagliacozzi developed a technique known as “skin grafting,” which involved using a flap of skin to create a new palate for tooth placement. While this method was groundbreaking, it had limitations and was eventually replaced by more advanced approaches.
20th Century Advancements:
The 20th century witnessed remarkable progress in the field of dental implants. In the 1930s, Swedish orthopedic surgeon P.I. Branemark unintentionally discovered osseointegration, a process where bone fuses with titanium. Branemark’s research laid the foundation for modern dental implantology. In the 1950s, Dr. Leonard Linkow introduced subperiosteal implants, placing them beneath the gum tissue but above the jawbone. Although successful, these early implants had limitations in terms of stability and long-term viability.
Revolutionary Breakthroughs:
The late 20th century saw revolutionary breakthroughs that transformed dental implants into a reliable and widely accepted treatment option. In the 1960s and 1970s, research by Swedish scientists and clinicians led to the development of the first commercially successful implant systems based on osseointegration principles. Dr. Per-Ingvar Branemark’s work culminated in the introduction of the Branemark System, which utilized titanium fixtures to anchor prosthetic teeth securely in the jawbone.
Advances in Materials and Techniques:
The 1980s witnessed significant advances in implant materials and surgical techniques. Titanium became the material of choice due to its biocompatibility and ability to integrate seamlessly with bone tissue. Innovations in implant design, surface modifications, and surgical protocols enhanced the success rates and predictability of dental implant procedures. Computer-aided design and manufacturing (CAD/CAM) technology further optimized implant placement and restoration.
Contemporary Landscape:
Today, dental implants are an integral part of modern dentistry, offering patients a durable and natural-looking solution for tooth replacement. Implant designs have evolved to accommodate various clinical scenarios, including single-tooth replacements, implant-supported bridges, and full-arch restorations. Computer-guided implant placement and digital workflows have revolutionized treatment planning and precision.
Looking Ahead:
The journey of dental implants continues, marked by ongoing research and innovation. Biomaterial advancements, including bioactive coatings and regenerative techniques, hold the promise of enhancing osseointegration and promoting faster healing. Additionally, advancements in digital dentistry, such as 3D printing, are poised to reshape the manufacturing of implant components and prosthetics, making treatment even more customizable and efficient.
In Conclusion:
The history of dental implants reflects the ingenuity and dedication of individuals who strived to restore both function and aesthetics to the smiles of those in need. From ancient civilizations’ crude attempts to modern state-of-the-art techniques, dental implants have come a long way. The journey from seashells and ivory pegs to titanium fixtures integrated seamlessly into the jawbone exemplifies the persistent pursuit of excellence in dental care. As technology and knowledge continue to advance, the future of dental implants holds the promise of even more remarkable developments, ensuring that individuals facing tooth loss can enjoy enhanced quality of life and restored confidence in their smiles.
