Dental implants have been the top tooth replacement option for decades since the '50s when they first hit the scene. Because they restore your root, they closely mimic your natural tooth, which best protects your oral health. Implants have improved over the years as we learned that titanium easily integrates with bone, but what does the future hold for this treatment that already boasts a 95% success rate?
Improved Osseointegration
The number one reason that 5% of dental implants fail is infection. When a dental infection occurs, the implant is not able to integrate properly and adhere with your bone. In some cases, the implant has to be removed. Researchers, however are working toward a solution.
A study described in Medical News Today explains how researchers have created coatings for the surface of dental implants that have antibacterial properties designed to stave off infection and promote the osseointegration process. Also in development is a material that could be used to heal an already infected implant so it doesn't have to be removed.
There's still a long way to go until we'll see these products in use, but the implications are exciting. The chance to make an already highly successful treatment almost completely foolproof would be a huge benefit to implant dentistry.
Dental Implants at East Cooper Smiles
Dr. Jason Annan and his dedicated team at East Cooper Smiles are proud to offer comprehensive implant dentistry to our patients. His knowledge, skills, and experience allow him to perform your entire procedure from start to finish here at our office. We look forward to improvements coming down the road to make implant dentistry even more successful and reliable for our patients.
If you're living with a missing or failing tooth, schedule a consultation for dental implants in Mount Pleasant, SC. We look forward to meeting you.