Wouldn't you like to eat a sandwich knowing your partial or full denture won't slip? Go to sleep each night without removing your teeth? Smile with confidence? Then dental implants may be the solution for you. Dentists have successfully performed dental implants for many years, enabling thousands of people to eat, smile, and speak without worrying about dentures slipping or gaps showing from missing teeth. Whether you're missing one or all of your teeth, you, too, may find that dental implants can give you comfort and confidence again.

When Teeth Are Missing
Several problems can occur when you're missing teeth.

Discomfort. Many people find that their partial or full denture is uncomfortable and rubs against their gums - even to the point where they are unable to wear their denture.

Embarrassment. Gaps where teeth never grew in or were removed can be embarrassing. But many people don't want to have healthy teeth filed down to support bridgework.

Loose dentures. Many people wear dentures to replace teeth removed due to gum disease or tooth decay.  Eventually, dentures may slip out in public or become painful.

In use for many years, dental implants are effective, natural-looking replacements for missing teeth. After a thorough evaluation, your dentist surgically prepares your jaw and makes your prosthesis (substitute teeth). Your attention to oral hygiene helps determine the success of your implant.

Your Dental Evaluation
Your dentist does an evaluation to decide whether you're a good candidate for a dental implant, which implant to use, and where in your jaw to place it.

The Implant Process
Having an implant is a three-step process: your dentist performs two surgeries to place the implant into your jawbone and then creates the prosthesis.

Caring for Your New Teeth
To keep your implant clean and problem free, you'll need to have routine dental checkups and pay extra attention to your oral hygiene.

Considering Dental Implants
Dental implants are an exciting option that has changed the lives of many people. But implants aren't for everyone. Read through this checklist. If you answer "yes" to any questions, then dental implants may be a good choice for you.

How Your Mouth Feels

• Do you wear a full or partial denture that causes you pain when you eat?
• Do you wear a full or partial denture that fits badly and sometimes slips?
• Are any of your remaining teeth becoming loose or crooked?

• Are you embarrassed about dentures or missing teeth when you smile or laugh?
• Do problems with a full or partial denture prevent you from eating in public?
• Does wearing dentures keep you from being socially or physically active?

• Will you spend extra time on oral hygiene for your implant?
• Will you follow up with regularly scheduled dental checkups?
• Can you wait several months to use your implant fully and effectively?