Restoring confidence with dental implants

Losing one or more teeth can be a painful experience for most people. One Norwegian survey found that it was so stressful and comparable to having "trouble with relatives."

The toothless patient has every reason to worry. He looks older because of his shrinking jawbone, can’t enjoy the foods he likes, and is often the butt of cruel jokes that diminish his confidence and self-esteem.

The ancient Egyptians realized this and devised false teeth to solve this problem. However, dentures have not really improved the quality of life of individuals owing to their many problems.

"Patients with dentures lose a great deal of chewing efficiency and a considerable amount of taste sensation. Full dentures need to be repaired and periodically checked for wear and tear. The plastic denture doesn’t change, but as time goes by the tissues under the denture do change, and this leads to loosening of the dentures, sore spots, and potentially dangerous chronic irritations that may be a factor in oral cancer. The gums and jawbones, even without teeth, can develop cysts, tumors, and infections," according to Drs. Marvin Schissel and John Dodes in The Whole Tooth.

"Perhaps the most common cause of denture problem is unrealistic patient expectations. Patients should be taught exactly what to expect from a completed denture.

"They should be cautioned that the denture is not bolted into place but merely rests on the tissues; certain movements of the mouth will dislodge it," they added.

If you’re frustrated with dentures, modern dentistry has another solution: dental implants. Since they were introduced over 35 years ago by an orthopedic surgeon, dental implants have changed the lives of millions of toothless people worldwide.

It’s easy to understand why. Dental implants are surgically implanted into the jawbone and won’t fall out of your mouth while you’re talking or laughing. They won’t make you look old.

On the contrary, dental implants will greatly improve your appearance since they prevent the jawbone from shrinking. On top of that, you’re free to eat anything since dental implants look, feel and function like natural teeth. With dental implants, you’re in control.

What’s more, dental implants promise a lifetime of renewed confidence. With your improved self-esteem, you’ll experience the joy of living once more.

Ask your dentist or oral surgeon about dental implants. For more information, call 843-9112 or 843-8786.