Titanium Implants: A Revolution in Modern Medicine

Nowadays, titanium implants have become the standard solution for replacing missing teeth and Dental Crowns. The properties of this metal make titanium implants an evolutionary solution for numerous problems in the fields of medicine and dentistry. Let’s dive into the world of titanium implants! We’ll explore their history, their advantages for tooth replacement and what you can expect when you’re getting a titanium implant.

The History of Titanium Implants

Titanium implants were first used in the 1950s. A Swedish orthopedic surgeon named Dr. Per-Ingvar Brånemark was the first person who found out that this material can have useful applications in medicine.

By that time, he was conducting research on bone healing and blood flow. He inserted titanium chambers into a rabbit’s leg bone and found that the metal bonded naturally with the bone tissue. We call this process “osseointegration”. This also happens when we place an implant inside the jawbone of a patient looking to replace a missing tooth. The implant fuses with the jawbone and creates a strong foundation.

Before titanium, other materials were being tested for dental implants, but all of them failed to be compatible with the human body. Titanium, however, changed the rules of the game. It is now used for other medical applications as well.

Why Titanium? Understanding Its Key Properties

What makes this material so suitable for the applications it has? Let’s get to know titanium a little bit more! You won’t regret it!

It’s biocompatible and integrates with human tissues

This might be the most significant advantage of titanium. This metal integrates with human tissues without causing allergies and adverse reactions. While the human body rejects some other metals, it creates a peaceful and healthy relationship with titanium! Human bones and our metal friend fuse through the osseointegration process, and this bond is strong enough to enable a titanium implant to act as an artificial tooth root.

It’s strong and lasts for a long time

Titanium has an exceptional strength-to-weight ratio. This means that it’s lightweight yet incredibly strong. This is exactly what we need when it comes to tooth replacement. Titanium implants can withstand the daily stresses and forces exerted on them. Teeth are subject to such forces; therefore, a titanium implant is a great choice.

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It’s resistant to corrosion

Titanium doesn’t break down when exposed to bodily fluids. And there’s an interesting reason behind this! When titanium is exposed to air, a protective oxide layer is formed over it. This helps titanium protect itself from corrosion, making it an ideal option for long-term implantation!

It has non-magnetic properties

Another benefit of titanium is that it is non-magnetic. This means patients with titanium implants can undergo MRI scans and other medical procedures involving magnetic fields without any risks.

It’s versatile and suitable for various applications

From tiny dental screws to large joint replacements, titanium won’t let you down! This fella can be shaped and molded into different forms, serving as devices we need to implement inside the human body!

The Process of Implantation

Now let’s see what happens as you start and continue on your journey to get titanium dental implants! This procedure has several steps and it’s a good idea to be familiar with it if you are considering it.

1. Your Consultation and Treatment Plan

First things first, you should undergo a thorough oral examination. This includes medical imaging (such as X-rays or CT scans), to determine the best location for the implant. The surgeon or dentist needs to assess whether your jawbone is healthy and adequate. This is how they make sure your jawbone can support an implant.

2. Placing the Dental Implant

Now it’s time to get ready for your local anesthesia and implant placement. This is a surgical operation but don’t get frustrated! Your implantologist can insert your titanium implant and prepare you for a shiny smile that grabs attention!

3. Healing and Integration

Now, you need to go through a healing period. The healing phase can take several weeks to months. It depends on where the implant is placed in your mouth and your overall health. Osseointegration is a critical process during this time (do you remember what it was?!) to create a stable and strong support for other pieces of the implant (hold on, we’ll get to them in a second!)

4. Final Restoration

Congratulations! The titanium post has now fully integrated with your jawbone. You’re back in the dental clinic to finally finish the process. This is when your dentist adds two more pieces to your implant: a custom-made dental crown (this looks like a tooth and it will be visible), and an abutment to connect it to the titanium post. Your implant is ready to go! Say cheese (or eat some)!

Advantages and Limitations of Titanium Dental Implants

So, are titanium Dental Implant services absolutely perfect?! Or do they have their drawbacks like everything on this planet?! Let’s have a look!

Advantages:

You can use them for a lifetime. Titanium implants are built to last for decades. This makes them a reliable choice for a long-term tooth replacement solution.
They have high success rates. For both dentistry and medical applications, titanium implants have consistently high success rates.
They are safe for your body. This metal is hypoallergenic. It means that it rarely causes allergic reactions. So, you can get them with peace of mind.

Limitations:

They can be expensive. We’ve been talking about how incredible these little implants are! Well, we should face a little truth here! With all these great features, comes a higher price. Obviously, implants are not as affordable as traditional dentures. However, all the good things about titanium implants can justify the investment you make.
You should wait a while. As we discussed earlier, the whole implant procedure takes several months. This takes longer than some other tooth replacement options. But again: justifiable!
They might not be suitable for some. Some health conditions like severe osteoporosis or compromised immune systems can stop some people from getting implants. These individuals should try alternative treatments.

Final Words: The Future of Titanium Implants

You now know that an essential part of installing a dental implant is leaving it to fuse with the jawbone for several months. And yes; this sounds like a buzzkill! The good news is that scientists are now trying to reduce the length of this period. They are doing this by covering the surface of titanium implants with nanostructures. This coating increases titanium’s ability to fuse with the bones and allows for faster healing times.

Researchers are also confronting this problem from another angle. They are working on immediate-loading implants. In this approach, a temporary prosthetic tooth can be placed on the titanium implant right after surgery. As a result, you won’t need to spend 3 months with a metal implant visible in your mouth.

If you need dental veneers, you can refer to the relevant page and contact our consultants

Getting Your Dental Implants

Titanium implants offer a proven track record of success. They have helped millions of people worldwide regain their quality of life and confidence.

If you’re also considering a dental implant and live in Toronto, Walk-in Family Dental has you covered. Our team of highly experienced dentists specializes in installing high-quality, durable dental implants in North York. To get started, give us a call at (647) 799-6622.