For the last fifty years, Dental implants have been one of the most advanced methods for replacing missing teeth. Dental implants have two main components, the titanium root and the crown. Dental implants integrate with the body and function much like a natural tooth. First, an implant dentist inserts the titanium implant into the jawbone. It heals and through the process of osseointegration, the titanium fuses with the surrounding tissue and bone mass to create a connection that mimics that of an actual tooth root. When implant healing is complete, the implant dentist attaches a custom-crafted, ceramic crown. Made from medical grade ceramic, the crown is both durable and indistinguishable from your natural teeth.
With a 98 percent success rate, dental implants are already one of the most incredible methods for replacing missing teeth. With advancements in medical technology, however, they’re becoming even more incredible.
Here are 2 dental implant advancements to watch for in the future.
Robotic Surgery
In 2017, the world saw its first autonomous dental implant surgery. Taking place in China, a robot dentist supervised by human medical staff implanted two teeth in a woman’s mouth. The U.S. company, Neocis, is also developing this technology. It is currently in the process of receiving approval from the FDA. The first human trials may happen as soon as 2019. Developers say it could fill a shortage of qualified human dentists who perform dental implant surgery and cut back on surgical errors.
3D Printed Dental Implants
A new groundbreaking approach to dental implants has been conducted using 3D bioprinting technology at Griffith University Menzies Health Institute Queensland in Australia. There, the team is producing tissue engineered bone and gum that can be implanted into a patient’s jawbone. Starting as a scan of the patient’s jaw, the team used a specialized bioprinter that was set to the correct physiological temperature in order to successfully fabricate gum structures that have depreciated due to tooth loss. The study is currently in pre-clinical trials, but the team hopes to test the new technology in humans in the next one to two years.
Dental Implants Now
While these two advancements are incredibly exciting, it could be a long time before they are commercially available. If you’ve recently lost teeth, chances are you’ll want those replaced quickly. Tooth loss can lead to loss of bone mass due to decreased jaw stimulation in the affected area, which is why replacing missing teeth quickly is important. Even those suffering from osteoporosis may experience improved quality of life from dental implants, as suggested by a new study.
If you’ve been considering dental implants, but are not sure if they’re best for your specific circumstances, consider scheduling an appointment. By reviewing your dental record, your dentist can make the best recommendations.
Do you want to learn more about dental implants in Westchester County? Please contact us today for an appointment with implant dentist Dr. George Sepiashvili or Dr. Wanda Mejia at Advanced Dentistry of Mohegan Lake.