How Long Have Dental Implants Been Around? The Fascinating History

If you’re wondering how long have dental implants been around, the short answer is: people have tried replacing teeth for thousands of years, but reliable modern dental implants have only existed since the 1960s. Knowing this history matters — it explains why today’s implants are safe, predictable, and backed by decades of research. Below is a short, friendly timeline that shows how ancient attempts turned into the high-tech treatments we use now.

Early Attempts: Ancient Times to the 1700s

Archaeologists have found evidence that ancient people tried to replace missing teeth with carved shells, pieces of bone, or even animal teeth. Civilizations in South America, the Middle East, and Asia made early attempts to restore chewing or appearance, but materials, infection control, and surgical knowledge were limited. Without modern sterilization and understanding of bone healing, these early efforts rarely lasted.

The Birth Of Modern Implant Concepts (1800s–1950s)

By the 1800s and early 1900s, dentists experimented with gold, porcelain, and metal posts placed into the jaw. Surgeons attempted to anchor replacements directly to bone, but many early designs failed because the body rejected or infected the implants. These centuries of trial and error shifted dentistry from craft to science, setting the stage for better materials and surgical techniques.

The Osseointegration Breakthrough — When Dental Implants Became Reliable

The major turning point came in the mid-20th century when Professor Per-Ingvar Brånemark discovered that titanium could fuse with bone — a process called osseointegration. His work in the 1950s and 1960s showed that titanium implants could become a long-term part of the jaw. That discovery transformed implants from experimental to dependable, leading to the modern implant systems used today.

Materials & Technology That Improved Implants

Key advances after Brånemark’s discovery include medical-grade titanium, improved surface treatments that encourage bone growth, and better implant shapes for stability. Digital tools like CBCT scans and digital imaging allow precise planning. Computer-guided surgery and on-site lab technology help shorten treatment times and raise success rates. Together, these improvements make implants more comfortable and predictable.

How Long Have Dental Implants Been Around — Quick Timeline & What That Means Today

– Ancient attempts: thousands of years ago (shells, carved teeth) – Early modern experiments: 1800s–1950s (metal posts, high failure) – Osseointegration discovery: 1950s–1960s (titanium fusion with bone) – Modern implant era: 1960s to today — about 50–60 years of reliable, documented use This means patients can choose implants with confidence because long-term data shows good outcomes when treatment is planned and placed correctly.

Who Is A Candidate & What To Expect

Good candidates are generally in good overall health, have adequate jawbone, and avoid heavy smoking. Typical steps: consultation and medical history, CBCT scan for planning, implant placement, a healing period (often 3–6 months for bone to integrate), and final restoration with a crown or bridge. Healing times vary by individual and whether bone grafts are needed.

About Elite Dental & Implant Center — Experience With Implants

Elite Dental & Implant Center serves Greater San Antonio with locations in San Antonio, Pleasanton, and New Braunfels, TX. Led by Dr. Mohan Jaganathan and Dr. Veena Raja, the team has extensive implant experience and uses advanced tech like CBCT imaging and an on-site lab. Their approach blends academic expertise with patient-centered care to deliver reliable implant results.

Learn If Implants Are Right For You

If you think implants might help you, book a consultation. Bring your medical history and a list of questions. A personalized exam and CBCT scan will show whether implants are a safe, long-lasting option for your smile. Contact the office to schedule an evaluation and get clear, expert answers about your options.