3 of the Latest and Coolest Dental Implant Innovations
Dental implants are in a class of their own when it comes to replacing missing teeth! These awesome little implants can effectively restore the look, feel, and functionality of your smile—and they only continue to improve as technology improves! Thanks to continuous advancements in techniques, materials, and modalities, implants can now boast an impressive success rate of over 95%! Keep reading to learn more about three of the latest innovations that have contributed towards dental implants becoming the go-to option for many patients.
1. Computer-Designed Implants
Computers do a lot to make our lives easier; and they can make your dentist’s life much easier too by assisting them with designing your implants! An important factor with receiving dental implants is stability; your jawbone must be able to properly fuse with the implants once they’re placed. That means that your implants need to be the correct size, shape, and length to fit perfectly and encourage this union between bone and implant. By using CAD-CAM (computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing) technology, your dentist can create exact duplicates of your missing teeth which can immediately replace the defective biological ones.
2. Digital Implant Planning Software
Your implants, in addition to needing to be crafted to exact specifications, also need to be carefully and precisely placed in your mouth. Your dentist doesn’t want to hurt any underlying nerves or nearby oral structures, after all! However, by utilizing digital planning software, your dentist can scan your mouth and digitally design and practice placing your implants beforehand. This “top-down” digital style of planning allows for an efficient and accurate tooth replacement process. It also lets your dentist plan accordingly for any existing issues that must be treated before you can receive your implants.
3. Antibacterial Coating
Tooth decay is one of the biggest reasons for tooth loss, as oral bacteria and acid erosion can wreak total havoc inside your mouth if left unchecked. But one newer innovation that directly combats this involves an antibacterial coating that covers your implants. Even though your implants are much more durable than your natural teeth, they are not entirely resistant to staining and decay. But this coating provides an added layer of protection against the acid erosion and decay that can affect both your implants and your natural teeth.
Missing teeth is a serious oral health concern that can ultimately lead to other problems, including additional missing teeth! That said, dental implants are the premier option for replacing them; and thanks to modern advancements and innovations, they only continue to get better and better.
About the Author
Dr. Roman Kotlarek has proudly served patients and families in the Houston area for several years! Dr. Kotlarek completed his DDS at the University of Texas Health and Science Center in San Antonio and is a Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry. His practice is pleased to offer many available services including dental implants! If you’d like to schedule a visit, feel free to reach out online or by phone at (281) 920-4200.
