Did you know that 69% of adults ages 35 to 44 have lost at least one permanent tooth to an accident, gum disease, a failed root canal or tooth decay. Furthermore, by age 70, an amazing 1 in 4 adults have lost all of their permanent teeth.
Unfortunately, these statistics are even worse in our practice. An astounding 85% of our adult patients are missing at least one tooth and even more horrific is almost 60% are missing two or more teeth.
To me, this is an appaling statistic. Therefore, my New Years Resolution is to drastically reduce the number of paients in our practice with missing teeth.
Missing teeth causes many health risks including jaw pain. improper digestion, bite collapse not to mention premature wrinkling and shifting teeth. Whether you have one or all of these symptoms, many of you are destined to become the 1 in 4 adults missing all of their teeth.
From my experiences, an array of people question the effectiveness of dental implants. I can't tell you the numerous amount of times I hear a patient say, "No way am I getting an Implant." I can't fathom why, or where their concerns lie. Are they afraid? Is it the cost? Or are they just not educated in this matter?
Dental Implants are composed of 3 parts: The titanium implant that fuses with the jawbone; the abutment, which fits over the portion of the implant that protrudes from the gum line; and the crown.
The implant placement is the first portion of treatment where the titanium "root" interlocks with the underlying jawbone. What most people don't understand is this new root is placed in an area where there are no nerves. Therefore, in most cases, any discomfort will discontinue in 12-24 hours. Osseointegration, or attachment, must occur before proceeding to the second phase of treatment.
Part 2 and 3 encompass the fashioning of the tooth with its connector or abutment. A screw is affixed to the implant allowing a standard crown to be cemented or screwed down. This procedure is completely painless with no need for local anasthesia.
Total treatment ussually takes several months and the result is a fully functional tooth (or set of teeth) that resembles your natural tooth, but more importantly, with proper care, functions for a lifetime. It should be noted that by replacing the missing tooth, the jaw is preserved from any bone recession, a vital element in arresting the aging process.
Our office will answer any questions you have concerning dental implants or you can email us through the website. Of course, you are free to appoint a time to meet in the office to discuss your dental needs. Thank you for allowing me the opportunity to keep you smiling! Have a great year!
-Dr. Soffer
