Historically, dental bridges and partial dentures were the only options available to restore smiles for people who were missing teeth. Dr. Nikunj Raiyani, located in Hanford, CA, wants his patients to know that the times have changed. Dental implant teeth are now most dentists’ preferred method to replace a tooth or multiple teeth.
History of dental implants:
Archaeologists have discovered attempts at dental implants spanning back through the centuries. During the 1700s and 1800s a few attempts were made at creating non-denture teeth. They failed. The trick was for an implant to work, it was necessary for the replacement tooth to fuse to the bone, in a process called osseointegration. In 1952, an orthopedic surgeon discovered that titanium has a high success rate of osseointegration. In 1965, he placed his first titanium dental implant into a human volunteer. Since 1965, various advances have been made that have jumped dental implants ahead of dentures for teeth replacement.
What implants are:
A titanium post that serves as a tooth root substitute. They are inserted into the jawbone, and after healing has taken place, it is used to anchor the replacement tooth.
Advantages of dental implants:
- Natural looking. Strong and stable, so the replacement tooth looks, feels, and fits like a natural tooth.
- Permanent. Implants will often last the remainder of your life.
- Easy to care for. They can be cares for like natural teeth.
- No special diet needed.
- Speak naturally. Dentures can often slip, causing slurring. Implants don’t have this problem.
- Retain your natural facial shape.
Hanford Family Dental Center wants each patient to have a healthy and beautiful smile to feel proud to share with the world. We will customize treatment to your lifestyle and needs. Call to schedule a consultation to find out if dental implants are for you. 559-530-8080.