People have recognized the problems caused by missing teeth and have struggled to find solutions for a very long time. Ancient people were well aware of the problems resulting from not being able to chew or speak correctly and had no choice but to deal with the pain.
While many solutions were tried, some involving animal teeth wired into place, the Mayans are credited with the first successful implants. Fourteen hundred years ago, Mayans used replacement teeth carved from a variety of materials, such as stone or jade. Incredibly, some of these carved teeth fused to the jawbone – primitive implants, but implants none the less.
Modern implants date to the 1970s. Although current techniques and technology are much improved, the basic procedure is similar. The most important scientific advance regarding implants was the discovery that titanium was the perfect material to use for implants. Titanium has the special property of being able to fuse with bone, making modern implants possible.
A Cosmetic Dentist in San Bernardino uses implants to replace missing teeth because implants are fixed and function like natural teeth. They look like natural teeth – maybe even better in some cases. The implants do not have a negative effect on neighboring teeth and are very strong and stable. Implants can also be used to support a denture or bridge.
It takes several month and a number of visits to arrive at a finished implant. X-rays are taken and molds are made of the jaw and teeth. This is used to determine bone, gum tissue and the available spacing for the implant. The implant is then placed surgically into the jaw. It takes about six month for the implant to fully integrate with the bone.
In a few weeks, the artificial, custom-made teeth are fitted to the post. It may take a few fittings spaced over a couple months to complete the process. After healing, the artificial teeth are attached to the implant by a Cosmetic Dentist in San Bernardino.
West Covina Family Dentistry offer a wide variet of dental services to their California patients, including implants. The practice is focused on providing the best dental care possible. Anyone with missing teath should visit their website or call for an appointment to learn more about the many benefits of implants.
