DENTAL IMPLANTS HISTORY

Approximately 10 million Canadians are missing one or more natural teeth (edentulism ). Of this group approximately 3 million patients are missing all their natural teeth.

The concept of implanting metal or prosthetic roots into the jaws to support teeth is not new. Archeologists have uncovered attempts at dental implants in mummies found in ancient Egypt.

Early tooth replacement from ancient Mediteranean civilization
Over the centuries this concept has been attempted in a variety of ways, but has been unsuccessful until recently.

Dr. Per-Ingvar Branemark is credited with the discovery and development of the technique of osseointegration. Osseointegration is defined as a chemical and mechanical bonding of a titanium implant (essentially a titanium screw or fixture) to the surrounding bone.

These implants act as artificial roots, or anchors, for the replacement of missing teeth. Implants give replacement teeth a more stable base and improve the use one can get out of bridgework and dentures.