Modern dental implants went mainstream in 1969, ten years after Swedish researcher Per Branemark discovered that bone could fuse to titanium. However, the concept behind dental implants—the basic tooth/root substitute – has been around for a long time – a really long time. Implants can be traced back to around 600 AD with the Mayans, and archeologists have unearthed evidence of dental implants in early cultures across the globe.
The most notable implant-related discovery came in 1931 when archeologists working in Honduras found the mandible (lower jaw) of a Mayan woman. The mandible, which researchers consider to be that of a woman in her twenties, had three tooth-shaped seashells inserted into the sockets left by missing teeth. For many years, scientists believe that the shells were part of a burial ritual, but then in 1970, a dental academic, Amadeo Bobbio, found that bone had grown around two of the implants. This led him to the conclusion that the shells served as tooth replacements while the woman was still alive.
Other notable dental implant discoveries include thousand-year-old Egyptian mummies who were discovered with gold wires implanted into their jawbones. A pre-Columbian exhibit showcases skeletons with dental implants made from semi-precious stones. In the Middle East, skeletons were found with ivory implants, and most recently, scientists discovered an iron implant in the jawbone of a Roman soldier.
While ancient implants addressed the cosmetic issue of missing teeth, they probably didn’t function as well as today’s modern implants. Backed by decades of scientific research, modern implants are designed to fuse with the jawbone – a process known as osseointegration. When placed by a skilled implant dentist, modern dental implants give you the power to chew foods again, and they can potentially last for a lifetime.
Call Dr. Fitzgerald’s Plano dental office at (469)814-8304 today to discover the benefits of modern dental implants!
At the Fitzgerald Implant Center, we use the latest technology to provide patients with the best possible implant experience. With a CAT scan and computer software, we minimize surgery time for patients and deliver more predictable results. Patients and caregivers benefit from the advanced planning that CAT scan technology affords.
A CAT scan is a noninvasive medical test that involves X-rays and sophisticated computer software. The CAT scan gives Dr. Fitzgerald high-quality images of the jaw and sinus cavities, revealing details not seen with traditional X-rays. He can transfer the images to a computer monitor to create 3D models that allow him to plan for surgery.
What does this mean for you? (more…)
Do your dentures slip and float at the worst times? As an implant dentist, I know many Dallas-area patients are frustrated with their traditional dentures. Adhesives and natural suction often fail to create the secure fit and hold you need, and since these types of dentures cover the roof of your mouth, they can impair your ability to smell and taste the foods you love.
To address this problem, I provide implant-retained dentures at Fitzgerald Dental Center. Dental implants have provided many denture wearers a beautiful, long-lasting, and reliable alternative to traditional dentures.
What are implant-retained dentures?
Small, titanium implant posts can secure a single replacement tooth, a bridge, or a denture. If you are interested in implant-supported dentures, you have two options:
- Non-removable fixed dentures, which most closely restore natural oral function, require a solid foundation of five or more implant posts per jaw. After I affix the dentures to the posts you’ll wear them all the time, treating them like natural teeth. Since you will brush and floss as usual, fixed dentures free you from the extra upkeep of removable dentures and are the strongest option.
- Removable overdentures are a solid alternative to traditional dentures. Attached directly to conventional implants, mini implants, or an implant-supported bar, removable dentures snap firmly in place for a reliable, snug fit. This type of denture needs the same care as a traditional denture, so you will take it out for cleaning periodically throughout the day.
With implant-supported dentures, you can be confident your teeth won’t let you down. Imagine the ability to eat what you like, smile proudly, and leave the adhesive behind. Sound great? Find out whether implants are the solution for you by calling the Fitzgerald Dental Center and scheduling a free consultation with me, Dr. Lee Fitzgerald. I’d love to improve your quality of life with implant-retained dentures.
Dental implants are a natural-looking, dependable, and lasting way to replace missing teeth. If you’re considering implants, you’ll need to know what to expect so that you can feel confident and comfortable with your treatment choice. I’m Dr. Lee Fitzgerald, an experienced implant dentist serving Plano, Dallas, and surrounding areas. Let me walk you through the steps involved in dental implant placement and restoration.
At your complimentary consultation at Dental Implant Center, I’ll review your records and discuss your expectations so that I gain a comprehensive understanding of what you want. We’ll talk about the benefits of implants, and I’ll explain how we can replace missing teeth or secure a denture, partial, or bridge. Together, we’ll create a customized treatment plan that meets your goals, budget, and schedule. (more…)
Dental implants offer an attractive and reliable way to restore incomplete smiles. They provide lasting comfort and function and are virtually indistinguishable from natural teeth. I’m Dr. Lee Fitzgerald, a leading implant dentist serving Plano and North Dallas. I have placed and restored countless dental implants to beautifully renew smiles. If you want a permanent tooth replacement option that delivers unparalleled benefits, then dental implants may be the right choice for you.
(more…)
As an implant dentist in Plano, I have helped many patients across the Dallas area overcome the frustration of slipping, loose dentures. My name is Dr. Lee Fitzgerald, and I want to introduce you to an innovative concept in prosthetic dentistry, implant retained dentures.
Traditional dentures are usually held in place with denture adhesive or natural suction. Lower dentures, in particular, can slip out of place at inopportune times. Dentures also wear down the ridges of the gums over time, so the prosthetic has to be relined to fit properly.
With implant retained dentures, I place small, titanium implant posts in the sockets left by about 4 missing teeth. Your denture can be modified, or a new denture made, with fixtures that will snap onto your implant. In some cases, I use a bar fixture supported across two implants. The denture snaps onto the bar. We will review the various types of implant retained dentures and discuss which is best for your case.
My implant retained denture patients enjoy improved quality of life, confidence, and convenience. You can, too.
If you’d like to discuss dental implants or implant retained dentures with me or my associate, call Fitzgerald Dental Center in Plano today. Your consultation is free, so you have nothing to lose! Only a strong, solid, beautiful smile to gain.
If you’re missing teeth, consider the closest replacement tooth option to nature’s own design - dental implants. My name is Dr. Lee Fitzgerald, and I want to welcome you to my blog. I’ve been placing and restoring dental implants in the Plano and Dallas area for years. Along with my associate, Dr. Fred Thompson, I help patients like you enjoy better quality of life with solid, life-like dental implants. Whether you need a single tooth replaced or you are tired of hassling with loose or slipping dentures, dental implants may be your best option.
Dental implants are made of two primary parts, with an abutment (connector) in between.
The Post
An implant’s titanium post mimics a tooth’s root. It is a small, biocompatible component surgically inserted into the socket left by a missing tooth root. Bone tissue naturally bonds with the post to re-create a solid anchor in the jaw on which a tooth or teeth will attach.
The Tooth/Teeth
On top of one dental implant post, I can attach a single replacement tooth. To secure a denture, a few posts are required, and various systems are avialable. Fitzgerald Dental Implant Center contracts with what we consider to be reputable dental labs with ceramists who create high quality restorations. We’ll work with the lab so that your replacement tooth or teeth look natural, fit comfortably, and are designed to withstand the workout they’ll endure every day.
If you’d like to discuss dental implants with me or my associate, call Fitzgerald Dental Center in Plano today. Your consultation is free, so you have nothing to lose! Only a strong, solid, beautiful smile to gain.