How to Gain from Dental Implants

In 1986, the American Dental Association (ADA) endorsed dental implant surgery. During the procedure, the dentist places a titanium cylinder into the bone and attaches restorations to a post inside the implant to create the look and function of a natural tooth. Dentists who perform implants must have two or three additional years training in prosthodontics.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

1. Chew better with dental implants than with dentures. The average denture wearer eats at a 15 to 20 percent efficiency compared to someone with teeth. An implant restores the efficiency of natural teeth.
2. Protect against bone loss. While dentures may stop the blood flow in the jaw, causing further bone loss, dental implants can actually reverse the loss and restore a jawbone.
3. Gain confidence. You don't have to worry about something slipping and sliding around in your mouth like you would if you were wearing dentures.
4. Enjoy healthy gums. Dental implants put an end to having to remove dentures and you'll no longer have to refrain from chewing when your mouth is sore.
5. Smile more. Dental implants look better than dentures.

Tips & Warnings

• Be sure a dentist performing the dental implant surgery has a license to practice dentistry in your state and is board certified with proper specialty certifications.
• Poor oral care can cause gum disease in any teeth around an implant, weakening the bone and leaving both your natural teeth and the dental implant at risk.