Introduction to Dental Implants DDS 401: Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Presented by: [Your Name/Institution] [Date]
What is the implant ? A dental implant ( also known as an endosseous implant or fixture ) : Is a surgical component that interfaces with the bone of the jaw or skull to support a dental prosthesis such as a crown , ridge , denture , facial prosthesis or to act as an orthodontic anchor .
Crown Bridge D enture
The basis for modern dental implants is a biologic process called osseointegration ( bone-to-implant interface ) where materials, such as titanium , form an intimate bond to bone. The implant fixture is first placed, so that it is likely to osseointegrate, then a dental prosthetic is added. A variable amount of healing time is required for osseointegration before either the dental prosthetic (a crown, bridge or denture) is attached to the implant or an abutment is placed which will hold a dental prosthetic.
Indication Generally any edentulous area can be an indication for dental implants. Severe morphologic compromise of denture supporting areas that significantly undermine denture retention. Poor oral muscular coordination. Low tolerance of mucosal tissues. Para-functional habits leading to recurrent soreness and instability of prostheses. Active or hyper active gag reflexes, elicited by a removable prosthesis.
Session Objectives 1 Define Dental Implants Understand the basic definition and purpose of dental implants in modern dentistry. 2 Explore Historical Context Trace the evolution of dental implants from ancient attempts to modern breakthroughs like osseointegration. 3 Identify Implant Components Recognize and differentiate the key parts of a dental implant system: fixture, abutment, and prosthesis. 4 Discuss Clinical Considerations Examine indications, contraindications, surgical overview, maintenance, and potential complications.
What are Dental Implants? Dental implants are biocompatible devices surgically placed into the jawbone to replace missing tooth roots. They serve as stable foundations for prosthetic teeth, such as crowns, bridges, or dentures. Essentially, an implant replicates the entire natural tooth structure, from root to crown, offering a functional and aesthetic solution for tooth loss. The key to their success lies in the process of osseointegration .
A Glimpse into Implant History Early Attempts and Discoveries The concept of replacing missing teeth is ancient, with archaeological evidence dating back millennia. Ancient Mayans (600 AD): Shell fragments hammered into the mandible. Remarkably, some showed signs of bone integration. Ancient Egyptians: Transplanted human teeth, or in some cases, ivory and precious metals. 18th-19th Century: Experiments with gold, platinum, and iridium implants, often with limited success due to lack of biocompatibility and understanding of bone healing.
The Modern Era: Brånemark and Osseointegration The true turning point in modern implantology came with Per-Ingvar Brånemark, a Swedish orthopedic surgeon. 1950s: While studying bone healing, Brånemark observed that titanium surgical components permanently fused with bone tissue. He coined the term "osseointegration." 1965: The first titanium dental implant was placed in a human volunteer. This discovery lai the scientific foundation for predictable, long-term dental implant success, transforming prosthetic dentistry.
Why Dental Implants Matter: Unparalleled Benefits for Patients
Anatomy of an Implant: The Fixture The fixture (implant body) is the titanium screw-shaped component that is surgically placed into the jawbone. Material: Typically commercialy pure titanium or titanium alloys, known for their excellent biocompatibility and strength. Design: Vary in shape (cylindrical, conical), thread patterns, and surface treatments to optimize osseointegration. Function: Acts as the artificial tooth root, providing stable anchorage for the prosthetic restoration.
Anatomy of an Implant: The Abutment The abutment is a connector that extends from the implant fixture through the gum tissue into the oral cavity. Connection: Screws directly into the internal aspect of the implant fixture. Material: Can be titanium, zirconia, or gold, chosen based on aesthetic requirements and strength. Function: Serves as the support for the final prosthetic restoration (crown, bridge, or denture). Abutments are customized for optimal emergence profile and retention.
Anatomy of an Implant: The Prosthesis The prosthesis is the final restorative component that is attached to the abutment, replicating the visible part of the tooth. Types: Single Crown: For single tooth replacement. Fixed Bridge: For multiple adjacent missing teeth. Overdenture: Removable denture supported by implants for enhanced stability. Full-Arch Fixed Bridge (e.g., All-on-4): Non-removable full arch replacement. Material: Porcelain, zirconia, or composite resin, matching natural tooth appearance and function.
Biology of Osseointegration 01 Implant Placement The sterile titanium fixture is carefully placed into the prepared bone site. Initial stability is mechanical. 02 Blood Clot Formation Immediately after placement, a blood clot forms around the implant, initiating the healing cascade. 03 Inflammation & Angiogenesis Inflammatory cells clear debris, and new blood vessels begin to form, supplying nutrients to the healing site. 04 Bone Apposition Osteoblasts (bone-forming cells) migrate to the implant surface and begin to deposit new bone directly onto the titanium, creating a direct structural and functional connection. 05 Bone Remodeling Over several weeks to months, this new bone matures and remodels, increasing the strength of the implant-bone interface. This integration allows the implant to withstand occlusal forces.