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What are dental implants?
Dental implants serve as the base for many tooth-replacement options, including bridges, dentures and individual artificial teeth. Implants are surgically implanted in the jaw to provide a comfortable, secure fit and a natural look.
Am I a candidate for dental implants?
 Dental implants are an attractive option for patients who have lost one or more teeth, cannot chew or smile comfortably, or are not happy with dentures. To be considered for dental implants, you must be in good overall health and have strong gums and bones. You must follow excellent oral hygiene, including brushing, flossing and regular dental examinations. Patients with a high risk of poor healing such as smokers and diabetics, may not be good candidates. Your dentist will review your health history, order medical tests (if necessary), and study x-rays of your teeth and jaw bones to determine if you are a candidate for implant treatment..
Does my insurance pay for implants?
Dental insurance companies in the past did not extend coverage to implant services; however, high success rate, good predictability, and reasonable cost compared to other treatment options for missing teeth have changed that. Many of the plans are now including implants and implant restorations among the services they cover. You will need to contact your insurance representative to find out the details concerning your own situation.
Why should I replace a missing tooth?
The healthiest thing to do when you lose a tooth is have it replaced. Otherwise, you risk problems with biting, chewing and speaking, headaches, muscle pain and an unattractive appearance.
What are veneers?
Veneers are very thin, tooth-colored shells that are custom-fit and bonded to the front sides of teeth to close gaps, cover stains and discolorations, and correct chipped or misshapen teeth to give you a bright, even, attractive smile.
What are crowns used for?
Crowns are used to strengthen and improve the shape, size or color of teeth. They can support broken or weak teeth or those with large fillings; provide a smooth, strong, attractively contoured surface for stained, misshapen or otherwise abnormal teeth; and aid in the implantation of bridges and other implants.
What do bridges do? Are they the same as fixed partial dentures?
Bridges (also called fixed partial dentures) are natural-looking tooth replacements which help maintain facial structure, reduce stress on the jaw and fill in the gaps caused by missing teeth.
What's Periodontal Disease?
 Periodontal or gum disease is an infection of the tissues that surround and support your teeth. It is the leading cause of tooth loss in American adults. Plaque is the sticky film of bacteria that is brushed and flossed away with proper oral care. When left on the teeth, plaque produces toxins that attack below the gum line in the sulcus, a shallow v-shaped crevice between the tooth and gums. This causes the bond between teeth and gums to break down.
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