Here at Sheen Dental, we fit hundreds of dental implants in Richmond each and every year and a large part of our success relies heavily on the process of osseointegration, but what exactly is it and how does it work? Let’s explain.
In a nutshell, osseointegration is the process of bone integration (in this case with the implant which is fastened into the jaw-line). As the bone regenerates around the implant it miraculously merges with it. This provides an incredibly stable platform upon which to place the crown. The entire integration process can take anywhere between 3-9 months depending upon the rate of bone growth; and it’s this ability of the bone to inadvertently connect with a foreign material without any intervening soft tissue that makes osseointegration possible.
Why titanium?
Implants come in all different shapes and sizes and clinics will try to match the right type of implant to suit a patient’s needs. Although they may all be different, they are made from the same material… titanium. So why is this? There are three main reasons as to why titanium is used. Firstly it is known to be one of the very few materials to cause zero reactions when placed inside the body. This is why it’s been used in hip replacement operations for many years. Secondly, at present titanium is the only metal to bring about the osseointegration process. Finally, it’s lightweight but durable and it doesn’t corrode or weaken.
The use of titanium and its effects on osseointegration were discovered almost by accident. Back in 1952, Per-Ingvar Branemark a Swedish scientist found that the use of titanium alloplastics placed into the femoral (leg) bones of rabbits couldn’t be removed. Upon closer inspection Branemark found that over time new bone had grown back and attached itself securely to the titanium. After further testing on humans, he found it delivered exactly the same results. These findings were considered one of the most important breakthroughs in dentistry and orthopaedics in the modern age.
Whilst osseointegration is imperative to the success of a dental implant, in Richmond, experienced dentists from Sheen Dental suggest that this still doesn’t altogether guarantee success. Instead bone integration is only one stage and a starting point in the process. The real accomplishment of a dental implant is the ongoing dental care by the patient through continued and meticulous oral hygiene.
Here at Sheen Dental we show you exactly how to take care of your implant so that it should last you for the rest of your natural life. If you want more information about how you can experience the best service for dental implants in Richmond, then call us on 020 8876 5277 or visit our website at www.sheendental.co.uk