Patients ask Indianapolis dentist, “What is the history behind the procedure for dental implants?”

The history of dental implants traces back to the Mayans in 600 A.D. They replaced missing teeth with seashell fragments or carved stones. Now fast forward to the 20th century. In 1952, an orthopedic surgeon studied how bone healed. After placing a titanium cylinder in this body tissue, he discovered that, over time he was unable to remove it. The metal fused with the bone. This discovery led to advances in dentistry. In the 1970s, dentists began performing this procedure to restore health and beauty to smiles.

Dr. Matthew Church uses this restorative treatment to deliver an aesthetically pleasing smile. Patients find him at Washington Street Dentistry in Indianapolis. He demonstrates extensive skill in treating tooth loss with dental implants.

The treatment explained

An implant is a titanium post that replaces the root of a missing tooth. Doctors use this strong, lightweight and biocompatible type of metal in dentistry and orthopedics. As the orthopedic surgeon discovered in 1952, one of titanium’s special properties is fusion. The implant not only fuses to the bone, but also provides stabilization to the jaw and surrounding teeth. Dentists place these in the jawbone during a minor surgery. Patients can opt for a local anesthesia or other type of sedation during the operation. Over the next three to six months, the implant fuses to the bone. Following the healing process, Dr. Church adds a post with an artificial tooth to complete the restoration. Once treatment is completed, patients can forward to natural-looking smiles.

Dentist addresses bone resorption when patients are missing teeth

Bone is constantly rebuilding itself. However, when a tooth is missing, bone resorbs, or deteriorates. The longer tooth loss is left untreated, the greater likelihood of bone resorption. To prevent continued jawbone loss, consider an implant. Otherwise, losing this living tissue can affect your facial structure, giving an aesthetic appearance of looking sad. This is one reason it is critical to see a dentist right away when you lose a tooth. Treatment requires you have sufficient bone volume and density to support an implant. Diabetes or osteoporosis can delay the healing process. If you must wait, bone grafting can stimulate the body’s ability to regenerate tissue and prepare your jaw for a dental implant.

What is the next step?

Dr. Church is happy to discuss this prospect with you. Following an examination and x-rays, he works with you to create a treatment plan. If you want to explore your candidacy for this type of restoration, call (317) 333-6788 to schedule a consultation.

Share this Article