According to the experts, the first dental implant dates back to 2000 B.C.! At the time, materials like copper pegs, seashells, and even animal teeth were used to replace missing teeth. Considering their lack of anesthetics and primitive tools, the procedure was likely painful with a low success rate. Fortunately, patients today can opt for a much safer and more natural-looking alternative. In fact, improvements in dentistry and dental implant technology have developed exponentially in recent years, and 2020 is no exception! Read on for three of the latest innovations!
#1. Digital Implant Planning and Selection
Each year, a whopping 500,000 dental implants are placed. To ensure that the procedure is a success, your dentist will conduct a thorough examination to qualify you as a good candidate. From there, they will map out the placement and depth of the implant to ensure that it has the highest likelihood of success. Years prior, this process was extremely complicated. However, thanks to innovations in technology, dentists can use CBCT technology and digital impressions to make the procedure much easier.
#2. Computer-Guided Dental Implant Surgery
Once the plan is in place, your dentist can use state-of-the-art technology to ensure the implant will be positioned in the right location. By using a computer-guided program, your dental team can map out the entire oral surgery procedure beforehand, which limits the number of surprises or problems that come up along the way. Not only does this lead to a more precise surgery, but it also benefits the patient by ensuring more accurate treatment results.
#3. Antibacterial Coating
One advantage of dental implants that patients love is that they are both stain and decay-resistant. However, new advancements in dentistry are about to take this already popular restorative treatment option to the next level. By applying an antibacterial coating, patients can bypass pesky food restrictions that were required for previous dental implants. Plus, this additional protective layer can improve their lifespan exponentially!
Today, dental implants are widely known for their natural-looking finish, impressive durability, and cavity-resistant properties. However, thanks to the above innovations, a lifetime guarantee and a 100% success rate may one day be added to that list!
About the Author
After Dr. Christine D. Laster graduated Magna Cum Laude from the American University in Washington, she completed her dental education at the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill School of Dentistry. Upon graduation, she received the notable Diagnosis and Treatment Planning Award! Today, she uses her extensive experience, kind personality, and impressive clinical skill to help her patients achieve strong, healthy, beautiful smiles. If you would like to speak with Dr. Laster about whether dental implants are right for you, then visit her website or give her a call at 919-787-0355.