Surprising Facts About Dental Implants

Dental implants have been revolutionizing smiles for years, but there’s more to these nifty little tooth replacements than meets the eye. At Torrance Dentistry, we love diving into the lesser-known facts about dental treatments. So, let’s explore some surprising tidbits about dental implants that might just make you see them in a whole new light.

1. Implants Have Been Around Longer Than You Think

Think dental implants are a modern invention? Think again! Archaeological digs have unearthed evidence of ancient dental implants made from materials like bamboo and metal. Of course, today’s implants are far more sophisticated, but it’s fascinating to know that the concept has been around for centuries.

2. Dental Implants Can Actually Preserve Your Jawbone

Here’s a cool fact: dental implants can help maintain the health of your jawbone. When you lose a tooth, the bone in that area can start to deteriorate over time. Implants mimic the root of a natural tooth, stimulating the bone and helping to prevent this loss. It’s a win-win for both your smile and the health of your jaw.

3. They’re Not Just for Single Tooth Replacement

Dental implants are versatile. While they’re commonly known for replacing individual teeth, they can also be used as anchor points for bridges or to secure full dentures. This flexibility makes them a fantastic option for a wide range of dental restoration needs.

4. Implants Have an Impressive Success Rate

One of the most impressive aspects of dental implants is their high success rate. While it can vary slightly based on where in the jaw they’re placed, in general, dental implants have a success rate of about 95-98%. That’s pretty reassuring!

5. They Don’t Get Cavities

Yes, you read that right! Dental implants are made from materials like titanium and ceramic, which means they’re immune to cavities. However, don’t ditch your toothbrush just yet – good oral hygiene is still crucial to keep the surrounding gums and teeth healthy.

6. The First Modern Implant Was Placed in 1965

The history of modern dental implants dates back to 1965 when a Swedish orthopedic surgeon named Dr. Per-Ingvar Brånemark placed the first titanium dental implant into a human volunteer. Since then, the technology and methods have evolved significantly, making implants one of the safest and most reliable dental procedures available.

7. Implants Can’t Get Discolored Like Natural Teeth

Unlike natural teeth, which can stain and discolor over time, the material used in dental implants remains steadfastly color-stable. This means your implant will continue to match your other teeth in color, maintaining a consistent and natural look.

Dental Implants – The Hidden Hero of Modern Dentistry

Dental implants might seem straightforward, but they’re actually full of surprises. Whether it’s their ancient origins or their jawbone-preserving powers, there’s more to these little dental heroes than just filling gaps in your smile.

At Torrance Dentistry, we love helping our patients discover the best dental solutions for them, and implants are often a top choice. So, the next time you think about dental implants, remember – there’s a lot more to them than just replacing a missing tooth!