Dental Implants: One Thousand Four Hundred Years in the Making
Around 600 AD Mayans Were Performing Implant Surgery With A Hammer….
It was a crude form of implant surgery; archaeological evidence suggests that Mayans used ivory, shell and animals bones to substitute missing teeth by hammering them into the jawbone. Skip forward 1100 years and we see the experimentation of tooth replacement with bones from humans. But of course, there were complications when the body reacted negatively to foreign tissue.
Then in the 1950’s, a Swedish doctor discovered that bone and titanium are compatible—titanium is in fact the material still used today. But it was not until the 1980s when what is called implant dentistry was formally introduced. Now, 30 years later, the field of implant dentistry is still evolving, still changing and still finding ways of making it better for the patient.
Dental Implant Treatments Have A Higher Than 90% Success Rate…
There’s a reason dental implants are a popular. Dental implants are a popular solution for missing teeth because of their high success rate. Through decades of research and development, implant surgery is the safest, most beneficial way to replace missing teeth to date.
While it is true that the best tooth is a natural tooth, sometimes accidents happen and we lose a tooth. Or a tooth has to be extracted. Although tooth extraction is usually a last resort because if a tooth can be saved it should. Natural teeth are in fact healthier for you.
But, in the unfortunate event that a tooth cannot be saved—don’t worry! At Curtis R. Couch D.D.S in Thousand Oaks we offer a range of treatments to replace your lost tooth.
Dental Implants vs. Bridges…
There are actually two options for missing teeth. While arguably dental implants are the most popular, we also offer bridges. Dental bridges are attached to the two neighboring teeth. These two neighboring teeth are known as abutment teeth. When looking to get bridges there are two options: you can either get permanently attached bridges or removable bridges.
1. Fixed bridges (permanently attached):
Fixed bridges are bonded into place. This means that only a dental professional can remove them. Dental bridges are a great way to replace missing teeth and retain a healthy smile and restore your appearance.
2. Removable bridges
The name says it all really: these bridges can be taken out and cleaned. The downside is that they are less stable than fixed bridges.
Implant Surgery:
Implant surgery takes longer to perform than bridges and may cost slightly more. However, dental implants are strong and sturdy. Not only do they replace missing teeth and look great, but they also help jawbone density.
Implant surgery takes anywhere from 6-8 months and will leave you with strong, sturdy prosthetic tooth and an aesthetically pleasing smile.
So, Which One Is Right for You?
That depends on your circumstances and on your needs. When you visit Curtis R. Couch D.D.S in Thousand Oaks, one of our expert dentists will discuss which option is right for you.
The important thing to remember is that if you are missing a tooth or multiple teeth it is important for your health that you seek dental treatment at our Thousand Oaks practice.
For more information on our implant surgery or dental bridge treatment, or to book an appointment at our conveniently located dental practice in Thousand Oaks, please do not hesitate to contact us.