There is a certain feeling each of us has when we look into the mirror and feel really confident about our appearance. It "sets the mood" for our day or social function. Simply stated, our personal confidence can dramatically affect our lives.

Unfortunately, missing teeth, medically known as edentulism, keeps many people from "feeling their best". Edentulism not only affects your self-confidence, but also has a dramatic impact on the quality of your life.

Edentulism may limit your choice of foods and therefore your nutrition and general health.

Edentulism can make you feel isolated either socially or on the job.

If not treated, partial edentulism, that is missing some of your teeth, can place stress on the remaining teeth requiring them to "do more work". This can lead to further tooth loss.

Edentulism also leads to bone loss making the "fitting? of traditional dentures difficult.

For years the best solutions for missing teeth were bridges, removable partial or full dentures.

Partial Dentures : When several teeth are missing, a removable partial denture may provide the support needed to fill in the spaces. Partial dentures usually attach to natural teeth with unsightly clasps and hooks. These very obvious attachments can cause undue stress on the existing natural teeth and promote tooth decay.

Full Dentures :  Some people can wear full dentures without fit problems, but it is not uncommon for a denture wearer to live with pain and irritation of the gums or have difficulty in eating or speaking. Many denture wearers are anxious about whether or not their denture is going to slip and cause embarrassment.

Fixed Bridges : Removable teeth, no matter how well made, do not feel or function like natural teeth. Historically fixed bridges came as close as possible to the feel of natural teeth. However, this necessitates "cutting down" and crowning natural healthy teeth to support the bridge.

There's another price to pay for edentulism. When teeth are removed, Mother Nature assumes there is no need for the bone that supported the teeth. After all, that is the primary job of your jawbone. Over time the bone slowly, yet progressively diminishes. In fact the upper and lower jawbones get smaller or shrink. This process, called resorption, occurs at a more rapid rate if all teeth in the jaw are missing. But, it also occurs when just some of the teeth are missing. If left untreated, the loss of jaw bone can progress so far that a denture will no longer stay in place.

Dental Implants ... The Natural Solution- For centuries man has endeavored to find a more natural replacement for missing teeth. Modern, space age materials have allowed that quest to become a reality. Today?s dental implant is possible because of these materials combined with years of research and clinical trials. The dental implant is truly the most natural solution for missing teeth.

But what exactly is a dental implant?
Dental Implants are metal posts, made of titanium, that are surgically placed in your jawbone beneath your gum tissue. The Implants provide stable anchors or roots for artificial replacement teeth, which look like natural teeth. Dental Implants can replace one tooth, several or all teeth. Dental implants are successful because of Osteointegration ? a natural process in which your jawbone grows around and anchors to the Dental Implant. This provides a solid foundation for the artificial teeth, allowing you to once again chew and speak comfortably. Since Dental Implants are attached to your jawbone they can provide distinct advantages over traditional methods of replacing missing teeth.

Advantages of dental implants over traditional methods of replacement of teeth are-

• Implants restore proper chewing function and so you can enjoy foods previously too "difficult" to eat.
• You feel confident that your replacement teeth won?t move or loosen.
• You regain the closest look, feel and function of your natural teeth.
• Forget about unsightly partial denture clasps  which cause damaging pressure on remaining natural teeth.
• Improve your speech by eliminating or reducing the "fullness" of full or partial dentures.
• Replace missing teeth with the look and feel of natural teeth without having to "cut down" healthy teeth.
• Dental implants help stop the progressive bone loss and shrinkage of your jawbone.
• Dental implants are clinically proven with a success rate in excess of 93%.

Frequently Asked Questions about dental implant treatment.

Are implants always successful?

Modern implant techniques have been in use since the 1950's. Improvements in procedures and materials have given implants a ten year average success rate of 93 percent or better. This enviable success rate is improving every year!

Can failed implants be replaced?
It is  unlikely but if an implant fails it can usually be replaced by another.

Is everyone a candidate for implant treatment?
In general, anyone healthy enough to undergo routine tooth extraction or oral surgery is probably able to receive an implant. There are some health conditions that warrant special consideration. Certain chronic diseases, heavy smoking or alcohol abuse may contraindicate implant treatment. Remember, age is not a factor.

Will others know I have dental implants?
Today's implant treatment enables you to have your new teeth look, feel and function like your own. Dental implants offer some of the finest restorative results possible in modern dentistry.

How long does complete treatment take?
Depending of the type of implant and replacement teeth selected, the total time can be as little as a few weeks to six months.

Will I need to be hospitalized?
Most implant procedures are performed in the dental office under local anesthesia. Although, some patients may desire pre-medication or IV sedation to control apprehension.

Is there pain or discomfort?
Many patients report implant surgery less troublesome than having teeth removed. With modern anesthesia and close attention to post operative care you can expect minimal discomfort.

Will I be without replacement of teeth at any time of treatment?Immediately following surgery you may be instructed not to wear replaced teeth in the surgical area. This period is usually short, and temporary teeth are soon provided so you can quickly "get on" with your life.

How much does implant treatment cost?
The cost of implant treatment depends upon the number and type of implants placed and the type of replaced teeth. The improvement in your self confidence, comfort, eating habits and appearance will make dental implant treatment one of the best investments you've ever made!

Are implant supported teeth as strong as my natural teeth?
Yes. Research shows that in many cases implants are actually stronger then natural teeth. Compared to removable teeth, studies show implant supported teeth have 100 percent or better chewing efficiency. Dental implants can make it possible for you to enjoy your favorite foods, improve your nutrition and your appearance!

Clearly dental implants are one of the finest treatment options dentistry has to offer. With their ability to improve the quality of your life and health it's easy to understand why they have become the accepted alternative to traditional methods of replacing missing teeth.