Dental implants have become not only more reliable, but predictable. This means when you want to replace teeth using dental implant technology, you can have greater confidence that your treatment is going to be a success! Of course, that doesn’t mean researchers have stopped figuring out ways to make them better every single day. Whether you want to learn more about the gold standard of tooth replacement for yourself or for a family member, here are four innovations that make dental implant treatment better in just about every way!
Antibacterial Coatings
Eating foods that are highly acidic can wear down enamel, but they can also affect dental implants. It’s one of the reasons why implant patients need to practice regular at-home brushing and flossing, even though implants are made from inorganic compounds. In many cases, oral surgeons will use a special antibacterial coating on dental implants prior to placing them into the mouth. This effectively lowers the risk of dental problems later, including plaque developing around the implant and infections that can cause it to fail.
Implants Designed with Advanced Software
Dental implant posts are designed to mimic teeth roots in almost every single way. The more effectively they accomplish this, the better they will fit inside the jaw and remain healthy. With the help of computer software, specifically computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (also known as CAD/CAM) programs, dental implants can be made to mimic teeth better than ever. For example, oral surgeons can reduce the risk of bone loss in their patients during the placement phase and better ensure symptom-free healing for a more comfortable aftercare experience.
Digitized Implant Planning
While digital X-rays are ideal for diagnostic and preventive purposes, CT cone beam scanners are better suited for more complex procedures like dental implants. These scanners reveal the presence of nerves, blood vessels, and other sensitive areas that need to be avoided during surgery.
Dental professionals also tend to use digital impression systems to ensure the most accurately-designed restoration is made. Following the fabrication of the restoration, digital impression software can also improve the planning phase of treatment, ensuring the implant is placed as accurately as possible for successful integration. The better the implant is placed, the more it will integrate with existing bone and soft tissue (and the longer the implant will remain healthy in the jaw).
Implant Surgery Guided by Computers
Oral surgeons can also use computer software to guide the implant into the jaw during the actual surgery. It’s true that the surgeon still places the implant themselves, but the use of a digital technology ensures a more precise placement process. 3D printed surgical guides are one of the ways that surgeons can improve this predictability.
Looking forward to your future tooth replacement? Helping a loved one plan theirs? Feel free to contact an oral surgeon today and see if dental implants can meet your specific needs!
About Texas Dental Surgery
Not only are the board-certified surgeons at Texas Dental Surgery trained to place dental implants, but they make use of advanced technology to better ensure your dental implant treatment is a total success. This includes the use of a CBCT scanner for capturing 3D images of the mouth and jaw. This combined with their many years of expertise means you can visit their office with confidence. To learn more or schedule a consultation, you can contact them through their website.