Jawbone Density Issues? Dental Implants May Soon Be Possible without Bone Grafting

Dental implants are arguably the best possible solution for replacing missing teeth. There is a vicious cycle that can occur when teeth go missing and your body stops sending nutrients and minerals to your jawbone. Jawbone density begins to deplete which means you can lose even more teeth. Yet you may not be eligible for dental implants, even if you want them. Bone grafts may be possible, but they require additional surgery. Fortunately, researchers at the Universitat Jaume I (UJI) in Castellón have been working to formulate a coating method for dental implants that will actually restore bone density while you’re healing from the implantation. Your Pella, IA dentist, Dr. Jeffrey Allen, will tell you more about this innovative science in dentistry.

Avoiding Bone Grafts

If you have low bone density in your jaw, the biocompatible titanium rods known as dental implants may be out of your reach. Dental implants are designed to be root replacements. Just like your teeth, if your mouth and all of the elements surrounding it are not healthy, the implants will loosen and fall out. Bone grafts may include a two month period of recovery prior to any implantation being successful. Julio José Suay is the coordinator of Polymers and Advanced Materials and was in charge of the study. Mr. Suay said, “(The procedure) consists on covering the implant with a biodegradable coating that, upon contact with the bone, dissolves and during this degradation process is able to release silicon compounds and other bioactive molecules which induce bone generation.”

Developing a Prototype

Ilerimplant SL is a company that is partnering with the scientists at Jaume I and the University of the Basque Country. Members of this power team are designing a prototype of the biodegradable coating which could make dental implants much faster for those with low bone density. The formulation is already past a live animal testing phase. People will be exposed to the coating in clinical research in the near future. If things continue on as promising as they have begun, the biodegradable coating could be on the market in as soon as two years.

Dental Implants from Pella, IA Dentist

Are you embarrassed about loose or lost teeth? Do you wish that you could smile with a full grin again? Your Pella, IA dentist is happy to provide dental implants to interested patients in need. Call (641) 628-1121 today to reach our 50219 dentist office. We are located on the west side of the historic town square in Pella, IA. Please see the map for directions.