The Increasing Popularity of Dental Implants

Currently, the options for replacing missing teeth include bridges, dentures and dental implants.  Of these options, only dental implants provide a permanent solution that allows for replacement teeth that look, feel and function like natural teeth.  For this reason, the popularity of dental implants continues to increase.

Dental implants are prosthetic tooth roots that are placed in a patient’s jawbone to take the place of missing tooth roots.  Once the jawbone has healed and the implants are securely in place (a process know as osseointegration), a crown or bridge may be fixed to the implants to take the place of missing teeth.

Dental implants have become increasingly popular since their endorsement by the ADA (American Dental Association) in 1986.  In fact, between the years of 1986 and 1999, the number of dental implants procedures in the United States tripled.  It is now estimated that more than half a million dental implants are placed in the United States every year.

It is widely recognized that dental implants cost more than other tooth replacement options such as bridges and dentures.  Why then is this procedure becoming so popular?  Dental implants are the preferred tooth replacement option for most patients because they look natural, feel natural and allow for normal speech and normal chewing function.  Importantly, unlike dentures, dental implants are not at risk for slipping and falling out and do not require the use of adhesive creams.

Patients who receive dental implants find themselves free from the shame and embarrassment of missing teeth and experience an increase in their confidence as well as their overall quality of life.  To join the millions of Americans who have benefited from dental implants, contact an oral surgeon today.