December 10, 2007

Benefits of replacing old fillings

The fact of the matter is that no artificial material can adequately perform the job of your natural teeth.  Constant pressure exerted on our teeth from chewing, grinding and biting down on hard foods wears down on fillings.  The fact of the matter is that all fillings will eventually wear away, crack, become chipped or fall out.  The average lifespan of a filling is 5-15 years (it is said that fillings last even less time when they are white). 

Once some sort of damage is sustained to the tooth or its filling bacteria can form.  Since you can't clean inside the cracks of a filing, the bacteria feed on the food debris and form the acid that causes tooth decay. Decay under a filling can escalate quickly without you noticing any pain or sensitivity.

These problems can be prevented by having your fillings checked regularly and by getting your fillings replaced when problems are found.  Listed below are even more reasons and benefits for having old fillings replaced.

Leaking
When fillings become worn around the edges or pull away from the tooth enamel it is called leaking.  Leaking allows for bacteria to enter and be stored in the mouth in the inaccessible leaks that are in the edges around the filling.  Damage caused from leaking often goes unnoticed because there are no noticeable symptoms present until this decay reaches the nerve of the tooth.
When the damage does reach the nerve of the tooth it often causes severe decay and pain.  Obviously, it is important to keep the tooth and filling clean so as to prevent the development of another cavity. Worn fillings need to be restored as soon as possible in order to stop the decay from forming and the bacteria from spreading.

Biting and chewing
Cracks can develop in fillings simply from everyday biting and chewing forces.  The average human jaw has the ability to exert hundreds of pounds of pressure!  Chewing on particularly hard foods can magnify the problem.  If for no reason but simple chewing your food, your fillings can become worn, cracked and in need of replacement.

Crowns
When a tooth has had repeated trauma and a simple filling is no longer sufficient to protect and give strength to the tooth a crown is used.  Crowns are used to protect especially weak teeth from fractures and/or breakage

Looks can be deceiving
Damaged teeth are not always apparent.  Although decay can discolor a tooth, often times problems with fillings can exist without any apparent signs or symptoms.  Your dentist has the tools to be able to examine and evaluate the health of your tooth enamel.  In fact, dentists have a cavity detecting dye that can be rinsed over the mouth.  This dye sticks to areas that are decayed and rinses clean from areas that are healthy.

X-rays
More evidence for the benefits of replacing old fillings can be seen from X-rays taken to see decay that doesn't show on the surface.

Grinding or abnormal force
Cracked, broken, or fillings that are worn from unusual use will need to be replaced.  Activities such as nail-biting, tooth grinding (bruxism) or using your teeth to open things, will make filling damage more likely and a damaged filling can allow food debris and bacteria in your mouth to seep down and cause damage to the tooth itself.

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December 3, 2007

Pros and cons of bleaching teeth

The popularity of very white teeth has grown dramatically in recent years. From laser whitening to bleach to whitening strips, there are a number of procedures of varying intensity that can help to whiten your teeth.

Types of bleaching
There are several ways you can bleach your teeth. One way is through bleaching trays made by your dentist. With laser whitening, the dentist first places a special retractor in your mouth to keep the lips from touching the teeth during treatment. Then a translucent bleaching gel is applied to the teeth, and a laser is shone on the teeth for an hour. This light activates the gel, which in turn whitens the teeth. The dentist may decide to shine the light for longer than an hour, depending on the degree of discoloration the patient has.

Bleaching is another option for whitening the teeth and is the most common form of teeth whitening, as it is also the most cost-effective (aside from over the counter whitening strips). With this procedure, the patient visits the dentist and has impressions of your mouth taken. These impressions are then used to make a custom-made tray designed to fit your teeth exactly. From there, a bleaching gel is put in the tray and worn for an hour or two each day. Because the bleaching gel is a high concentration, results can be seen within a few days. However, it usually takes a couple of weeks to see full results. Bleaching whitens teeth about 6 shades lighter than before the process began.

Pros of bleaching teeth
For many people, the effects of aging, coffee, or other factors have taken a toll on the shade of their teeth. With so many products promoting and encouraging whiter teeth, many people feel self-conscious if their smile isn't as bright as it could be.

The main benefit of bleaching teeth is the increased confidence the patient will experience. Those who want quick, immediate results would do best with laser bleaching. Those who don't want to spend as much money or who would prefer a less dramatic method of whitening would be better off with bleaching trays.

Cons of bleaching teeth.
When done properly, there are very few cons to bleaching your teeth. The most common side effect or con is tooth sensitivity. The lighting used during laser whitening produces a very small amount of heat, but it is still a source of minimal discomfort for some people. In addition, some minor tingling can also be felt after the Zoom procedure.

With bleaching trays, keeping the bleach on for too long can also result in tooth and gum sensitivity, but this is easily remedied by only keeping the tray in for the recommended amount of time. If you are concerned with tooth sensitivity, ask your dentist to recommend or prescribe a special toothpaste designed specifically to reduce tooth sensitivity. Most dentists will tell you to wait two weeks after using the toothpaste before whitening.

Another con of bleaching is the cost. Laser whitening is much more expensive at around $1,000. Bleaching trays usually run around $500, which may or may not include the office visit.

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November 26, 2007

Calcium and stronger teeth

According to the Journal of Periodontology, adults who consume at least three servings of calcium each day have significantly lower rates of periodontal disease, a leading cause of tooth loss.  Sadly, calcium is the mineral most likely to be deficient in the average diet.  About 99 percent of the calcium in the human body is held in the bones and teeth.  Calcium is the main element of support in bones and teeth. Calcium salts make up about 70 percent a bone's weight.  Without sufficient calcium your bones are not able to retain their strength and rigidity. Likewise, without sufficient calcium your teeth will not be able to withstand the force involved in day-to-day eating.

Lets not forget about the remaining 1 percent of calcium in our bodies.  This calcium circulates in the bloodstream, where it helps to contract muscles including the contractions of the heart. Calcium is needed for blood clotting and transmitting nerve impulses.  Calcium is also involved in the stimulation of contractions of the uterus during childbirth and in the lactation process.

Calcium, it absorbed in the small intestine and passes from there either into the bloodstream or ultimately into the bones.  Regulatory mechanisms such as the hormonal secretions of the parathyroid and thyroid glands help to maintain the proper levels of calcium in the blood.  If a calcium deficiency does develop, the parathyroid hormone transfers calcium from the bones bloodstream where it is more desperately needed.  The result is that the bones are robbed of their calcium and the bones are weakened.  This includes your teeth.  Weak teeth cannot withstand the enormous amounts of pressure involved in everyday eating and chewing.  Therefore, those with low levels of calcium have weaker teeth and more problems with cracks, breaks and susceptibility to bacterial infection.

Calcium and cavities
Cavities have been defined as a bacterial infection caused by specific agitation to the structure of the tooth.  When one does not eat a healthy and calcium rich diet, plaque interacts with food deposits on your teeth and produces an acid that will slowly dissolve the calcium in your teeth.  When enough calcium dissolves from the tooth surfaces, the surface is compromised and a hole is allowed to form. That is called a cavity. The enamel, or surface area of your teeth, is 97% calcium.  When this enamel is weakened, the mouth become susceptible to tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath.

Calcium and kids
Calcium is extremely important for the development of a child's teeth.  We know that calcium is also important for the dental health of adults but it is especially important for children who are still developing.  Calcium absorption tapers off as one approaches adulthood.  As an adult it is important to maintain your level of calcium.  Research suggests that children can continue to absorb and build strength in their bones, not just maintain a certain peak level.  This is why it is so important to build your child's calcium levels while you still can.

Calcium and osteoporosis
The long term result of even mild insufficiency of calcium is thinning bones.  The more common term for this is osteoporosis. But calcium is known to help prevent osteoporosis.  Research is close to being able to establish a definite connection between osteoporosis and dental health. With severe osteoporosis, you often see periodontal disease and evidence suggests that a lack of calcium contributes to periodontal disease.

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November 19, 2007

Does using mouthwash really help to care for your teeth?

Many people use mouthwash as part of their oral hygiene routine. It makes the mouth tingle and feel fresh, but does using mouthwash really help to care for your teeth?
Mouthwash is a liquid solution that you can swish around in your mouth or gargle in order to cover the teeth, gums, and tongue. It is then spit out, not swallowed. Most people prefer to use mouthwash after they brush their teeth.

Mouthwash has a number of different uses. Some are useful in temporarily masking bad breath and rinsing the mouth of certain types of bacteria. Others have more helpful purposes and actually coat the teeth with fluoride to help strengthen them as well as prevent tooth decay.

The ingredients in mouthwash vary. Some of these include:
    Antimicrobials such as cetylpyridinium chloride, chlorhexidine, sanguinarine, and phenolic compounds. These ingredients work to reduce the amount of bacteria in the mouth.
    Deodorizing and oxidizing agents like sodium bicarbonate and chlorine dioxide, , which help to hide and neutralize bad odors in the mouth.
    Oxygenating agents, such as hydrogen peroxide), help to kill anaerobic germs (those that live without oxygen) by adding oxygen to the area.
    Fluoride. This ingredient is effective for strengthening teeth and preventing tooth decay.
    Pain-relieving agents. Some mouthwashes, specifically those formulated for sensitive teeth or those prescribed by dentists, provide pain relief.
    Buffering agents. These ingredients may relieve soft-tissue pain, reduce acidity and dissolve build-up of film on the lining of the mouth.
    Anti-tartar (e.g., zinc citrate) agents. These ingredients work to reduce tartar build-up in the mouth, which is hardened plaque that can only be removed by a dentist.
Mouthwashes also contain a good amount of water and alcohol, which add flavor or color. Most of the mouthwashes you'll find in the drug store use alcohol as the main ingredient.

Mouthwash is intended to be a supplement, not replacement, for oral hygiene. When used along with brushing and flossing, it can be beneficial to the overall health of your mouth, teeth, and gums. The most effective mouthwashes are those that are actually prescribed by your dentist.

Companies who manufacture mouthwashes you can buy in the drugstore sometimes claim that they are an effective way to clean teeth and kill bacteria, but dentists give conflicting reviews. These mouthwashes may kill bacteria, but it's usually only very temporary. As a general rule, over the counter mouthwashes are useful primarily for disguising bad breath, rinsing debris left over in the mouth from food, and giving the mouth a refreshing, tingling feel. The mouthwashes that have real dental benefits are those that are prescribed by the dentist.

Mouthwash can have a number of benefits to it, but as far as helping to really clean the teeth, brushing and flossing are the best for that. When trying to decide which over-the-counter mouthwash to use, look for the American Dental Association Seal of Acceptance. This indicates a product is safe and endorsed by a panel of experts.

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November 12, 2007

Does using mouthwash really help to care for your teeth?

Many people use mouthwash as part of their oral hygiene routine. It makes the mouth tingle and feel fresh, but does using mouthwash really help to care for your teeth?
Mouthwash is a liquid solution that you can swish around in your mouth or gargle in order to cover the teeth, gums, and tongue. It is then spit out, not swallowed. Most people prefer to use mouthwash after they brush their teeth.

Mouthwash has a number of different uses. Some are useful in temporarily masking bad breath and rinsing the mouth of certain types of bacteria. Others have more helpful purposes and actually coat the teeth with fluoride to help strengthen them as well as prevent tooth decay.

The ingredients in mouthwash vary. Some of these include:
    Antimicrobials such as cetylpyridinium chloride, chlorhexidine, sanguinarine, and phenolic compounds. These ingredients work to reduce the amount of bacteria in the mouth.
    Deodorizing and oxidizing agents like sodium bicarbonate and chlorine dioxide, , which help to hide and neutralize bad odors in the mouth.
    Oxygenating agents, such as hydrogen peroxide), help to kill anaerobic germs (those that live without oxygen) by adding oxygen to the area.
    Fluoride. This ingredient is effective for strengthening teeth and preventing tooth decay.
    Pain-relieving agents. Some mouthwashes, specifically those formulated for sensitive teeth or those prescribed by dentists, provide pain relief.
    Buffering agents. These ingredients may relieve soft-tissue pain, reduce acidity and dissolve build-up of film on the lining of the mouth.
    Anti-tartar (e.g., zinc citrate) agents. These ingredients work to reduce tartar build-up in the mouth, which is hardened plaque that can only be removed by a dentist.
Mouthwashes also contain a good amount of water and alcohol, which add flavor or color. Most of the mouthwashes you'll find in the drug store use alcohol as the main ingredient.

Mouthwash is intended to be a supplement, not replacement, for oral hygiene. When used along with brushing and flossing, it can be beneficial to the overall health of your mouth, teeth, and gums. The most effective mouthwashes are those that are actually prescribed by your dentist.

Companies who manufacture mouthwashes you can buy in the drugstore sometimes claim that they are an effective way to clean teeth and kill bacteria, but dentists give conflicting reviews. These mouthwashes may kill bacteria, but it's usually only very temporary. As a general rule, over the counter mouthwashes are useful primarily for disguising bad breath, rinsing debris left over in the mouth from food, and giving the mouth a refreshing, tingling feel. The mouthwashes that have real dental benefits are those that are prescribed by the dentist.

Mouthwash can have a number of benefits to it, but as far as helping to really clean the teeth, brushing and flossing are the best for that. When trying to decide which over-the-counter mouthwash to use, look for the American Dental Association Seal of Acceptance. This indicates a product is safe and endorsed by a panel of experts.

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November 5, 2007

Effective teeth brushing techniques

Brushing your teeth is perhaps the best way to prevent tooth decay and gum disease. Regular brushing of the teeth, when combined with flossing, can help to combat plaque and tartar build-up, which can result in cavities and other more serious problems if left unchecked.

Experts recommend you brush at least twice a day, preferably after every meal. In order for brushing to be truly effective, there are a number of techniques that should be followed.

Proper brushing technique is to brush your teeth for at least two minutes (a minute on the top and a minute on the bottom). You should brush your teeth in a circular motion, concentrating on the gum line. As a general rule, the following pattern should be adhered to:
    First, brush the outer surfaces of your upper teeth, then your lower teeth
    Next, brush the inner surfaces of your upper teeth, then your lower teeth
    Brush the chewing surfaces of your upper and lower teeth, mainly the flat part of your back teeth.
    You should also brush your tongue as well. This can help to freshen breath by removing plaque build-up on the tongue.

With regards to the kind of toothbrush to use, the best ones have soft nylon bristles. Toothbrushes should be replaced every 3 or 4 months or after you are ill. You may also want to consider an electric toothbrush. Electric toothbrushes have certain advantages over manual toothbrushes, in that they cover more area faster. As a general rule, they are recommended for people who have limited use of their hands, such as from arthritis. Studies show that people who use electric toothbrushes are also more likely to brush longer, so it could be advantageous.

The toothpaste you use is also important. There are a wide variety of toothpastes on the market, from those that are specially formulated for sensitive teeth to whitening toothpastes to flavored kinds. The type you choose depends on your individual needs. Regardless of the type of toothpaste you use, it should contain fluoride and other cavity and tartar-fighting ingredients. Always make sure your toothpaste as well as your toothbrush are approved by the American Dental Association.

It is also recommended that you floss at least once a day. You should always floss before you brush. Practice proper flossing techniques by pulling the floss taut and pinching it between your thumbs and index fingers. Keep the floss in the center taut, and then slowly and gently work floss between your teeth and down to the gum line. Once you are finished flossing, brush your teeth.

Make sure to floss gently, and avoid snapping the floss into your gums. This can cause damage and bleeding to your gums. In addition, do not pull floss back and forth against the gums. This can be painful if your gums are sensitive and can also cause damage to your gums.

Brushing our teeth is something we do every day, but it's important to follow the proper brushing techniques for the most effective results.

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October 29, 2007

Fluoride enhanced toothpaste, how effective is it really?

Long has been the debate over whether or not fluoride does more harm than good.  The American Dental Association says that over the course of studying dental health in the last 50 years that there has been a significant drop in tooth decay.  They attribute this decline in decay to fluoride and fluoridated drinking water.  The FDA on the other hand has not yet approved the statements and claims of the ADA.  In fact the FDA has issued warnings against the dangers that can result from improperly using fluoridated products and supplements.

So how is fluoride enhanced toothpaste different from other fluoride supplements including fluoridated water?  One of the biggest differences is that fluoride enhanced toothpastes are not meant to be ingested.  The fluoride is meant to be applied to the surface of the teeth and not consumed.  There are typically two categories of topical tooth treatments.  The ones that are sold over the counter and kept in your family's medicine cabinet, and the treatment that you can only find in your dentist's office.

Toothpastes and mouthwashes
Toothpaste containing fluoride has been used since 1960.  Since that time there has been a significant drop among users of fluoride-containing toothpaste in the level of cavities.  The American Dental Association recommends that all people over the age of two years old use toothpaste with fluoride.  Parents of children younger than the age of two should consult with their dentist about how to care for their toddler's teeth.  In addition to toothpastes there are also mouth rinses or washes that contain fluoride.  Mouthwashes are intended to be held in the mouth for a period of a few seconds and then to be spit out again.  Mouthwashes are not intended to be swallowed.  Various kinds of mouthwashes are available over the counter or by prescription.   The ADA recommends mouthwashes for all people above 6 years of age.  Those younger than 6 years old may not be able to use a mouthwash without swallowing it. 

Applied by a dentist
Special fluoride gels, foams or rinses can be applied to the teeth during a regular dental visit.  Typically the fluoride treatments that you would receive in a dentist's office are more concentrated than those you would find in a toothpaste or mouthwash.  It is therefore only necessary to receive fluoride treatment from your dentist every once in a while.  Although there is no ADA accepted dental office mouthwash, what dentists do is apply the fluoride to the teeth by putting the fluoride substance in a tray and allowing your teeth to soak in the product.  

Toothpaste tube warnings
As with any supplement there are dangers to using fluoride improperly.  Fluoride in toothpaste is intended for topical application only.  Toothpaste should not be swallowed.  You should rinse your mouth out well after brushing and you should teach your children to do the same.  As a reminder the following message has been printed on toothpaste tubes containing fluoride:

"WARNINGS: Keep out of reach of children under 6 years of age. If you accidentally swallow more than used for brushing, seek professional or contact a Poison Control Center immediately."

Fluoride, although helpful, will not prevent tooth decay unconditionally.  Fluoride will not change the consequences of a poor diet nor will it fight already existing damage.  Fluoride is just one of the tools used to maintain good oral health.  Taking care of the other aspects, such as lifestyle, that affect your teeth is up to the individual consumer

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October 22, 2007

Foods that discolor the teeth

For many people, the effects of aging, coffee, or other factors have taken a toll on the shade of their teeth. However, it's not just aging or not enough brushing that can lead to yellowed or stained teeth - food stains the teeth as well.

As a general rule, the same foods that stain your clothes will also stain your teeth. That's not to say that eating a blueberry will cause your teeth to turn permanently blue. Rather, the colors will cause the teeth to gradually darken or yellow. Some of the most common liquids and foods that stain the teeth include:

    Dark beverages. This includes sodas like colas and root beer and the two worst things for staining teeth, coffee and tea. Red wine is also an offender.
    Berries and berry juice. Included in this group is not only berries such as strawberries and blueberries, but grape juice and cranberry juice as well.
    Sauces such as soy sauce, tomato sauce and paste, and balsamic vinegar.

In order to reduce that amount of staining from your teeth, you should limit the amount of staining beverages and foods you consume. Or, you can substitute them for water and lighter foods and drinks, like grapefruit and grapefruit juice, white grape juice, ginger ale, white wine vinegar, and olive oil.

If you can't bear to give up your favorite beverages and foods, use a straw to drink darker cold beverages (never use a straw with hot drinks like coffee and tea). Always brush and floss your teeth as soon as possible after eating or drinking things that can stain your teeth. If that's not possible, chew sugar-free whitening gum.

What to do if your teeth are already stained
If your teeth are already stained from consuming these types of foods and drinks, there are a number of options you have for whitening stained teeth, including:

Whitening strips
These types of strips are good for teeth that are not severely stained or discolored. They come in a variety of brands and strengths and amount of time you spend applying them. Typically, you put them on twice a day from anywhere between 3 days to 14, with results noticeable after several days. These products contain peroxide, which will help to whiten the teeth to some degree (more than toothpaste but less than a dentist's visit). The results typically last at least six months.

Bleaching
With this procedure, the patient visits the dentist, who has impressions of your mouth taken. These impressions are then used to make a custom-made tray designed to fit your teeth exactly. From there, a bleaching gel is put in the tray and worn for an hour or two each day. Because the bleaching gel is a high concentration, results can be seen within a few days. However, it usually takes a couple of weeks to see full results. Bleaching whitens teeth about 6 shades lighter than before the process began.

There are a number of foods and drinks that discolor teeth, but with proper care or by avoiding them altogether, your teeth don't have to be discolored by food and drink.

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October 15, 2007

Getting dental work while pregnant

Everything changes when you're pregnant.  You must no limit some of your formerly mundane activities, watch your diet, refrain from riding roller coasters and visit the doctor every few weeks.  Life goes on, of course.  You're pregnant, not sick (at least we hope that you're not sick).  And your teeth still need attention even when you're pregnant. 

Many women think that they should not get dental work done at all while their pregnant or that they should at least wait until the second trimester. 

However, the American Dental Association (ADA) recommends that pregnant women eat a balanced diet, brush their teeth thoroughly with an ADA accepted fluoride toothpaste at least twice a day, floss at least once a day and schedule regular dental visits and periodic professional teeth cleanings.  Keep a regular cleaning schedule at home, as well as at the dentist's office. 

If you have not been seen for regular checkups, now is a good time to schedule an appointment.  It is often common for a pregnant woman's gums to bleed more easily during pregnancy; don't worry.  This is normal.  However, having your teeth cleaned more frequently may help with the bleeding.  Many women also experience morning sickness when they are pregnant.  With this comes vomiting and nausea.  The acids found in vomit can be very damaging to your teeth.  This is yet another reason why you should see a dentist while pregnant.  It is also important to see your dentist regularly, as gum disease has been linked to preterm birth. 

When you're pregnant, you should, however, avoid elective dental treatment such as routine dental X-rays.  If you have a dental emergency due to dental pain or an accident, an X-ray may be necessary.  If this occurs, be sure to have your dentist consult your obstetrician.  Also avoid teeth whitening treatments and bonding, especially during the first trimester.  Local anesthetic and X-rays should be used conservatively during the first trimester. 

There can be advantages and disadvantages to getting dental work done while you're pregnant.  Some insurance companies cover more dental procedures while you're pregnant than when you're not pregnant.  This may allow you to have procedures done on your teeth that you would not normally have been able to afford.  One disadvantage is that the use of pain medication while you're pregnant must be limited (no heavy narcotics for the pregnant women!).  So many women are only able to take Tylenol for the lingering pain of dental work. 

If you are worried about visiting a dentist while pregnant, simply talk to your obstetrician.  S/he will be able to calm your fears and properly inform you of the risks or benefits involved in dental work while pregnant. 

Remember that you're not the only one who needs dental care.  Your baby needs proper dental care from birth on.  Take care not to share spoons, forks and other utensils with babies.  The saliva you leave on the utensil contains bacteria that can cause tooth decay.  Also, if you bottle feed, be sure not to put your baby to bed with a bottle of juice, milk, formula or other sugary liquid.  Tooth decay can occur much more easily while these liquids stay in the mouth.  Finally, keep your baby away from second hand cigarette smoke.  Tobacco smoke may contribute to the development of tooth decay and gum disease. 

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October 8, 2007

How implants work

Dental implants are a more permanent solution than dentures for replacing teeth.  For those who are wearing dentures, you are aware of the disadvantages of a non-permanent fixture.  Dentures can become unsteady causing inconveniences when eating and embarrassment when talking with others.  There are tapes, pastes and gels to have to worry about, in addition to the extra cleaning and worry of owning dentures. 

For those who are in generally good health and who do well at maintaining good oral health, there is the option of a dental implant.  Dental implants are permanent.  There are titanium posts that connect the replacement teeth to the actual jaw bone (not to adjacent teeth as in other methods).  These titanium rods are then screwed into their proper positions. 

The technology used for implants in the U.S. has been around for the past 30 years in other parts of the world.  Tested by time the success rate of dental implants is impressive at 98 percent for lower implants and 91 percent for upper implants.

Dental implants can be fitted to almost anyone who is able to care for their teeth in a routine method.  Dental implants can be used to replace anything from a single tooth to an entire arch of teeth.  Most people loose these teeth due to injury or disease.  Instead of having a removable bridge or denture consider the advantages that exist from having a dental implant

    A smile that is fixed by more permanent methods can contribute to better face support and less structural variability.
    Artificial teeth from an implant are very durable and will not likely need replacement during a person's lifetime (unless some injury or other damage is sustained).
    An implant will function much the same as your regular teeth.  Care for an implant is the same for implanted teeth as it is for other natural teeth.  This care includes brushing, flossing and regular dental check-ups.
    If you can have routine dental care you can successfully use implants.
    Artificial tooth roots used for permanent implants are stable, natural in appearance, and can be made to match the patient's remaining teeth. 

In addition to all of the above advantages to having a dental implant is one important factor.  That is that with an implant, teeth surrounding the replacement tooth are not used for support and are therefore uncompromised.  For dentures and other removable fixtures, adjacent teeth to the missing tooth are used for support.  Putting additional stress on these supporting teeth can weaken the area and cause even further dental damage. 

Of course the complexity of a dental implant will vary depending on the degree of damage that the patient wishes to have fixed permanently.  It is interesting to note that most people who choose to have a dental implant do so in addition to wearing conventional dentures.  More specifically a common use for dental implants is to have a permanent bridge supported by 2-4 metal posts in the lower jaw and a complete conventional denture for the upper jaw.

In conclusion, the reviews from those who have chosen to have dental reviews are generally positive.   The stability of the titanium posts and of having the artificial teeth implanted into the jaw provides a natural fit and function.  There is the piece of mind that your teeth are your own and you will never again have to worry about embarrassing denture slips or gaps in your smile.

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