The Evolution of Dental Implants: How They Came to Be

While they may seem like a relatively modern technology, dental implants have been around for quite a while—more specifically, since 600 A.D. But from their creation to the present, we’ve seen major improvements in their functionality and style. Thanks to science and thousands of years of advancement, today’s implants are one of the best ways to replace missing teeth.

The First Dental Implants

The earliest dental implants were used in China and by the ancient Egyptians. Pegs carved from bamboo or ivory and rare gems were secured in the mouth to replace missing teeth.

The Mayans did something similar using seashells. There is evidence dating back to 600 A.D of Mayan dental “implants” that were fused to the bone. The bone formation around these Mayan implants looks surprisingly similar to what one would see around a more modern implant.

Major Improvements

The main problem with these early implants was that they didn’t integrate into the mouth well. The body often rejects foreign elements, so the pegs had to be replaced with different, more fitting materials.

From around the 1500s to the 1800s, cadavers became a popular source for dental implants. Their teeth were extracted and transplanted into living patients. Early scientists also experimented with blending various metals, like gold and silver, to create replacement teeth.

Modern Developments

One of the most significant advancements to dental implants was discovered in the 1950s, when Dr. Per-Ingvar discovered that the use of titanium promoted healing and regeneration of bone when implanted. Specifically, he found that bone would bond with the titanium.

The first titanium implants were used on humans in the 60s, but it wasn’t until the 1980’s that titanium implants became widely accepted and utilized.

Today’s Dental Implants

Today, “root form” dental implants are extremely commonplace and are shaped to include the root of the tooth as well as the crown. This makes insertion much easier and ensures the implant is well supported and will integrate into the mouth effectively.

Currently, dental implants have a 97% success rate and advancements continue to be made. 3D scans and imaging help dentists to position implants more accurately and replacing an entire set of teeth has never been easier.

There’s never been a better time to get dental implants than right now thanks to science and vast technological advancements.

About Stec & Stines Cosmetic Family Dentistry

The team at Stec & Stines is committed to building long-lasting relationships all while providing the best treatment possible. With combined experience of over 50 years, your dentists at Stec & Stines have specialized training in implant and cosmetic dentistry. They hold memberships with the American Dental Association, the Nebraska Dental Association, and the International College of Dentists. If you have questions about dental implants, visit their website or give them a call at (308)382-4440.