Implantology, as part of medical science, has undergone a remarkable journey – from the primitive methods of ancient civilizations to the high-tech solutions of the 21st century. Each discovery along this path has brought us closer to the ultimate goal – restoring lost functions and improving the quality of life for patients. Monolithic implantology, as the most advanced branch of modern implantology, represents the culmination of humanity’s centuries-old efforts in this field.

The first attempts to replace lost teeth were documented in ancient civilizations.

• Mesoamerica (around 600 AD): Archaeologists found that the Maya used pieces of shells inserted into the alveolar bones as tooth replacements. Studies revealed signs of osseointegration, showing an impressive understanding of biological processes.
• Ancient Egypt: The replacement of teeth with metals, golden wires, and other materials was mainly for aesthetic rather than functional purposes.
• Ancient China: The use of bamboo constructions for fixing teeth – an early example of biocompatible materials.

With the fall of ancient civilizations and the arrival of the Middle Ages, the development of medical technologies slowed down. Implantology essentially disappeared from practice, giving way to prosthetics. However, there are still descriptions of attempts to restore teeth using primitive metal pins.

The Renaissance brought a new surge in the development of medicine.

• Leonardo da Vinci and Anatomy: His studies of facial structures contributed to an understanding of the foundations of craniofacial surgery.
• Early Experiments with Metals: In the 17th century, French dentists began using gold pins to secure dental prostheses.

With the development of antiseptics and surgery, implantology gained real chances for success.

• 1809: Giovanni d'Arcangeli first proposed the concept of replacing teeth with metal structures.
• 1875: Parker Phillis described the use of platinum pins that provided better biocompatibility.

This century was a turning point for implantology, thanks to a series of revolutionary discoveries.

• 1952: Swedish orthopedic surgeon Per-Ingvar Brånemark accidentally discovered the phenomenon of osseointegration while experimenting with titanium pins. This became the foundation for classic implantology.
• 1970s: Development of two-stage implants with improved fixation in the bone.
• 1980s: The appearance of aesthetically-oriented implants.

Modern implantology has reached a qualitatively new level with the emergence of monolithic implants.

What is Monolithic Implantology?
Monolithic implantology is a fundamentally new approach based on the use of solid constructions that:

• Simplify surgical procedures.
• Ensure faster rehabilitation for patients.
• Minimize the risk of complications due to anatomical adaptation and the absence of connections.

The Role of Monolithic Implantology

• Clinical Effectiveness: Allows for the treatment of even the most complex cases, including complete edentulism and severe jaw atrophy.
• Patient Comfort: Minimizes the stages of treatment and shortens the recovery period.
• Biocompatibility: Innovative materials like zirconium make the implants hypoallergenic and resistant to stress.

Science does not stand still. Among the promising directions:

• Nanotechnology: Creating implants with surfaces that accelerate osseointegration.
• 3D Printing: Personalizing constructions for each patient.
• Genetic Technologies: Stimulating bone tissue growth for more effective implant fixation.

The history of implantology is a story of discovery and innovation, where each era has left its mark. Monolithic implantology is not only the culmination of these efforts but also the beginning of a new era, allowing each patient to regain confidence and a high quality of life. As a pioneer of this field, I am proud that my name is associated with this achievement. Together with my colleagues from ITMMI, we continue to develop this direction so that the future of dentistry becomes even more advanced.