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        Humans can only smile and animals know not to smile. For men smile should not be a mile away. And mind you, smile is the only international language. Dr Bindu Chenna- kesavan, Rootcoz Dental Care, No 43, 7th Cross Street, Rajalakshmi Nagar, Velachery 100Ft Bye Pass Road, Chennai-600 042 was sought for some vital informations on dental implants, in other words as to know the simple methods to bring back one's beautiful smile, as teeth alone intact on the jaws give shape - ugly or lookable - to the face.

        She answers to the following queries:

        Q: What are dental implants?

        A: Dental implants are titanium devices that are placed into the jawbone. They act as a root to provide a solid base for artificial tooth replacement.

        Q: Who is a good candidate for dental implants?

        A: Age is not a deterrent. Anyone healthy enough to undergo routine dentistry is healthy enough to have dental implants placed.

        Patient who want to replace missing teeth, those who are dissatisfied with their present denture, those people who would like to eat better and with more comfort, smile more frequently and feel more secure when they talk and laugh.

        Q: How long will implants last?

        A: How long do natural teeth last? They should last a lifetime. With proper care and routine dental check-ups implants should last a lifetime.

        Q: Do implants require special care?

        A: Presume that dental implants are natural teeth and treat them that way. Brush and floss the implant regularly.

        Q: How long does the whole dental implant process take?

        A: Dental implant procedure is divided in 3 phases.

        In the first phase, actual placement of the implant is done. This procedure is completed in the doctor's office during one visit. Most implants will remain covered, underneath the gums, for 3 to 6 months. Through this healing period, the patient will be given a temporary denture or bridge to maintain normal activities without restriction.

        The second phase of the procedure is usually 3-6 months after implant placement. At this time, the top of the implants will be uncovered from under the gums and a small metal post or extension will be attached to the implant(s).

        In the third phase, which usually starts a week after the second phase, your new replacement teeth are created and fitted. Total treatment time for most implant cases will usually be 5-8 months.

        Ask your dentist for further details on dental implants, the dentist suggested at the end.