Dental implants are made of titanium and serve as a support mechanism for prosthetics like crowns or bridges. Their purpose is to imitate the tooth’s actual root. They are screwed into the bone of the jaw which then osseointegrates. This creates a strong bond that is natural in look and feel.

The earliest indication of such a procedure can be found in a mandible recovered by archaeologists in 1931. The find dated back over 1300 years to the Mayan civilization of approximately 600 AD. In the young woman’s tooth sockets were pieces of shells to replace her teeth.

Around 1950, titanium began to be used in issues relating to bone throughout the body. The titanium was found to bond well with bone. A patent was filed in the late 1960s while research continued to be done. Today upwards of seven million people worldwide were making use of this technology.

This procedure is highly effective with a success rate of nearly 95%. Bone quality, practitioner skill and oral hygiene all play a part in the success rate. These things lead to stability. This is the ultimate goal. If osseointegration does not occur, the process will not work. Smoking raises the risk of this happening. It is advisable to quit smoking prior to the surgery.

As with all treatments, there are some contraindications. Some diseases such as diabetes lead to a slower healing process which may disqualify a candidate. The oral bisphonates that some who are fighting cancer must take could lead to osteonecrosis. Bruxism which is teeth grinding may also lead to disqualification. This grinding can cause movement and thus, decreased stability, during the healing process.

X-rays and CT scans are required prior to surgery. The practitioner needs to determine the best angle of implantation. These are helpful in that determination, especially the three dimensional CT, or computed tomography, scan.

The procedure is usually carried out over the course of at least two surgeries. Healing time varies. At least 2-6 months are required to achieve the needed strength and healing before the second step can be done. It is very important not to move on before complete healing has been achieved. The second step is usually the placement of the prosthetic.

Dental implants have helped millions of people deal with problems such as tooth loss without giving up their favourite foods. Unique and personal facial features can also be preserved.

For information and advice about dental implants in Liverpool call in at Ollie & Darsh, the brightest and most exciting dental practice in Liverpool.