Curious about the history of dental implants? These small titanium screws replace missing tooth roots by attaching to the jawbone, making them a popular choice for both patients and dentists. Dental implants are unique because they replace the entire tooth, seamlessly filling gaps in your smile. Since their invention, dental implants have evolved significantly. Read on to discover the fascinating journey of dental implants and how they have become the reliable solution they are today.
Ancient Dental Implants
The earliest dental implants date back to around 600 A.D. in China, where bamboo pegs were carved to replace missing teeth. Around 1000 B.C., ancient Egyptians advanced this concept by using precious metals to create dental pegs.
Archaeological finds have also revealed dental implants made from ivory and precious gems like jade, showcasing the ingenuity and resourcefulness of early civilizations in dental restoration. Ancient Mayans also contributed to early dental implant techniques by using seashells and intricately carved stones, some of which showed signs of bone fusion. These varied practices across ancient civilizations highlight the innovative approaches to dental restoration long before modern advancements.
Developments in Dental Implants
Between the 16th and 19th centuries, European scientists experimented with dental implants using materials such as silver, porcelain, and various alloys of gold and other metals. They also crafted iridium tubes, a durable silvery-white metal. During this period, it was also common practice to transplant teeth from impoverished or deceased individuals into the mouths of wealthier people.
Dental Implants in the 20th Century
In 1913, Dr. EJ Greenfield began using iridio-platinum cylinders soldered with gold to replace missing teeth. In the 1930s, Drs. Alvin and Moses Strock took a significant leap forward by implanting Vitallium orthopedic screw fixtures in both dogs and humans. These pioneering efforts marked the first successful placement of dental implants.
Modern Dental Implants
In 1938, Dr. P.B. Adams received a patent for a dental implant featuring a healing cap designed to aid tissue recovery. This innovative implant included internal and external threading, along with a smooth gum collar.
In the 1940s, Dr. Manlio Formiggini and Dr. F. Zepponi developed an implant with a stainless-steel spiral to enhance the fusion between the jawbone and metal for increased stability. Dr. Perron Andres later refined their design by incorporating a solid shaft for even better support.
In 1952, a surgeon discovered that titanium could naturally fuse with bone, sparking interest in its use for dental implants. The first titanium implant was successfully placed in 1965, and the modern titanium implant design gained widespread popularity in the 1970s.
About the Practice
Dr. Salari and her team at Nova Smile Dental are dedicated to providing exceptional dental care to the residents of Annandale and surrounding areas. Whether you need routine check-ups, cosmetic enhancements, or treatments for dental issues, they are here to assist you. They offer a variety of cosmetic treatments to enhance your smile, including dental implants to replace missing teeth and achieve a complete, beautiful smile. For more information on dental implants or to schedule an appointment with Nova Smile Dental, call (703) 763-0800 or visit their website.