They say it's worth every cent. After years of frustration and embarrassment from missing teeth or ill-fitting bridgework, many seniors have significantly improved their everyday lives -- nutritionally, medically and cosmetically -- with dental implants.

Advances in bone fortification techniques and computer-guided surgery to locate optimal implant locations in the jaw make it possible for patients with severe bone loss to have successful implant treatment, according to the American Academy of Implant Dentistry. See http://www.aaid.com.

"It hurts me to see seniors struggle with dentures that move around and prevent them from eating properly," said Olivia Palmer, DDS, an implant dentist practicing in Charleston, S.C. "They can't eat fruits and vegetables to help lower risk for or control diabetes and heart disease, and many have embarrassing facial disfigurements from years of lower-jaw bone loss. I strongly believe oral health problems are the major cause of malnourishment in older Americans today."

Palmer said she treats patients of all age groups, but derives the most satisfaction from helping seniors regain power to eat normally, live healthier and derive enjoyment from activities like going to restaurants with family and friends.

"Implants are a life-changing and, in some cases, life-saving treatment," she said. "Many of my patients get very emotional when they see how they look with implants and know they can enjoy foods that used to be impossible to chew. One lady left my office and ordered her first salad in 30 years."

The majority of seniors lose teeth from failed root canals, periodontal disease and decay. Within one year of losing a tooth, you lose about 60 percent of the bone that surrounded it, according to Palmer. "Even those who have lived with missing teeth for several years can benefit from dental implants," she said.

"Implants do not decay or involve root canals," said Palmer. "Further, they are 97 percent successful, which significantly exceeds the success rates of root canals, three-unit bridges or dentures."

For more information and to locate an AAID-credentialed implant dentist, log on at http://www.aaid.com or call 312-335-1550.

Source: American Academy of Implant Dentistry