From Past to Present: How Dental Implants Have Developed Over the Years

Dental implants are considered by many to be a feat of dental technology. What some don’t realize is that they’re a lot older than you might think! Believe it or not, this restoration got its start about 4,000 years ago. Not every attempt along the way was successful, though. If you’re curious about what happened next, keep reading – this post will tell you all about the development of dental implants.

Dental Implants of The Distant Past

As noted, the very first dental implants date back to ancient times. In these early years, the Chinese used bamboo pegs as implant posts, while the Mayans preferred seashells. Ultimately, neither method lasted very long. Inevitably the body would reject these unsuitable materials, and the restoration would fail. Even after the Egyptians tried using jewels and precious metals 2,000 years later, a truly effective dental implant remained elusive.

Modern Advancements

Until, that is, 1952. Credit for creating the first successful dental implant goes to Dr. Per-Ingvar Branemark. A keen student of bone structure, Dr. Branemark was experimenting with a rabbit femur and a titanium medical device. He left the device attached to the bone, and was surprised to find out later that the two had completely fused together!

What Dr. Branemark had discovered was a process we now call “osseointegration.” Basically, if the materials closely match a bone’s structure, they are “biocompatible” and will safely integrate. With this principle in mind, Dr. Branemark crafted a titanium post that would anchor a dental crown to the jawbone. Finally, he placed the first ever successful dental implant in 1965, and the rest is history!

How Dental Implants Can Benefit You Today

Because they can completely fuse with your jawbone, dental implants are much more stable and powerful than any other tooth replacement to-date. Patients are able to enjoy all of their favorite foods without restriction, and without having to worry about their false teeth slipping out of place. Truly, dental implants went from being the underdog of restorations to the most advanced option available!

About the Author

Dr. Zack Walker earned his DDS from the University of North Carolina School of Dentistry. As an educated dental professional, he knows more than most how quickly technology in the field can develop! That’s why he diligently pursues continuing education opportunities – to stay up to date with the latest trends and provide higher quality care for his patients. If you’re interested in dental implants, Dr. Zack would be happy meet with you for a consultation. To contact his office, call 336-993-3727.