Dental Implants Nearly Triple Over 10-Year Period

Dental Implants Nearly Triple Over 10-Year Period: ADA Survey

CHICAGO -- More and more Americans favor dental implants as an option for replacing missing teeth, according to an American Dental Association (ADA) survey, revealing a near tripling of implant procedures over a 10-year period.

Dental implants can provide artificial teeth that look natural and feel secure, according to the ADA. They also are used to attach full or partial dentures.

The average yearly number of dental implants, surgically placed by dentists, increased to 51.5 implants in 1997 compared with 1986's 17.7 implants, according to the 2,983 dentists responding to the survey in late 1997 and early 1998. The random-sample survey, conducted by the ADA's Survey Center, included ADA members and non-members.

When comparing dental implant activities by specialty, oral and maxillofacial surgeons increased the most to an average of 62.4 implants in 1996 from 34.3 implants in 1992. Periodontists climbed to 71 implants from 62.4 implants and general practitioners rose to 21 implants from 17.2 implants during the same period.

The survey also showed that 12 percent of the responding dentists reported they had surgically placed a dental implant. When analyzed by specialty, 97.5 percent of oral and maxillofacial surgeons, 64.1 percent of periodontists, 31.8 percent of prosthodontists and 8.8 percent of general practitioners said they had performed dental implant procedures.

Implants, however, are not an option for everyone, according to the ADA. Because implants require surgery, individuals must be in good health, including healthy gums and adequate bone to support the implant.

For those considering implants, the ADA recommends a thorough evaluation by a dentist.

For more information on dental implants and other oral health issues, visit ADA's website: http://www.ada.org

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