Dentistry has over time developed different techniques to replace missing or damaged teeth. One of the modern procedures to fix teeth employs the use of dental implants.

Some may ask, “When are dental implants needed?” As is the case with dentures and bridges, they can be used to replace missing teeth and are compatible with anyone who can accept other forms of dental surgery. Implants are not the dental appliances themselves, but rather serve as the foundation for artificial teeth.

Some may ask, “What is a dental implant considered to be?” The implant itself is a small root device made of titanium for extra strength. The root is surgically placed in the jawbone, which will subsequently grow around the artificial component. A small post attached to the implant will support the replacement tooth, or crown. However, implants can even be used to support entire dentures.

Since it is supported by the jawbone, there is no concern about a dental implant shifting, as can dentures. Implants look and feel natural, and are so durable that they can last a lifetime. If you are in need of replacement teeth, consider the benefits of dental implants.

The family dentist has been trying her best to get you in for an appointment. Last month she sent an extra toothbrush and toothpaste sample home with your husband. This week she sent you a message with your daughter who was home from college. Both messages were the same. You have not been in for an appointment in the last three years, and they really would like to see you for a checkup.

You are great about going in for your regular physical with your family physician, you even make sure you attend the annual breast exams. The yearly visits to the family dentist, however, are more of a challenge. It is not like you have horrible memories from childhood, but you have never loved dental checkup. Aside from a couple of cavities and one root canal, most of your appointments have been really calm, but you still dread the yearly checkups.

When Was the Last Time You Visited the Dentist?
From cosmetic dentistry for people who are looking at improving an already great smile to patients who do not even go in for regular appointments, there are many times when visiting the dentist is in your best interest. Even if you have had a phobia about keeping dental appointments in the past, there are now many gentle dentists who offer special services to help patients with anxiety.

Consider some of these facts and figures about the dental industry and the many services that they provide:

• 47.2% of adults age 30 years and older have some form of periodontal disease.
• 15% of the edentulous population, those with no teeth, has dentures made each year.
• 20% of Americans have one or more untreated cavities. Unfortunately, the poorer a person is, , at least among adults, the more likely that person is to be one of the untreated 20%.
• 99.7%, virtually all adults, of those surveyed believe a healthy smile is socially important, according to an American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD) survey.
• 70.1% of adults 65 years and older have periodontal disease, because this condition increases with age.
• In addition, 96% of adults believe an attractive smile makes a person more appealing to members of the opposite sex.

Instead of avoiding your next call from the family dentist, maybe it is time to make sure that you make and keep the appointments that can help you get and maintain the best dental health.