More Stable, Healthy Than Traditional Dentures (NAPSA)—Several years ago, Bill Davidson found he was not as happy as he wantedto be. “Physically, I felt young and healthy, but I wasn’t enjoying life like I used to,” he said. “I love talking and going to eat with friends and family, but I felt selfconscious because of my teeth.” Davidson, now 71, is not alone. Despite improved dental care, by age 50 the average American is missing 12 teeth, according to the U.S. Surgeon General. One-third of those over 65 are missing all of their teeth. As boomers look for better ways to regain their smiles, dental specialists are perfecting new technologies, such as dental implants, that look, feel and function like natural teeth. Dental implants are anchored in the jawbone as replacement roots and act as permanent teeth. The entire process takes three to six months and results can last for more than 30 years, much longer than traditional dentures which place false teeth on top of gums with adhesives. “A smile can affect your outlook on life,” said Dr. Thomas McGarry, prosthodontist and memberof the American College of Prosthodontists. “Dental implants work for anyone, whether they are 18 or 80. I’ve seen the joy patients experience after receiving dental implants—they get the courage to live the lives they’ve wanted.” Offering benefits such as improved speech and security, the use of dental implants is on the rise. Additional benefits include: * Improved Eating—Thereis no need to worry about certain foods; chewing with dental implants is like chewing with natural teeth. * Appearance—With traditional dentures, the jaw can shrink due to lack of use; implants Dental implants help anchor dentures to the jaw, making the dentures feel and function like real teeth. actually stimulate bone growth by keeping the jaw active. * Comfort—Moving dentures sometimesirritate or injure gums. According to dental implant recipients, however, the greatest benefit is self-esteem. “I would have done it years ago if I knew how great I would feel,” said Davidson. “I don’t have to worry about my teeth any more, andit’s a wonderful sense of freedom.” The cost for dental implants varies. It is important to check with your insurance company before planning to undergo the procedure, which is best if performed by a dentist who has received special training. Prosthodontists have received an additional three years of rigorous training following dental school and are particularly skilled at determining the right angle and placement of the implants, as well as creating replacement crowns that look just like natural teeth. To find a prosthodontist in your area, visit www.finda prosthodontist.com or contact the American College of Prosthodon- tists at 800-378-1260.
