Dental implants are a procedure that replaces a missing tooth's form and its function.  If you were to have a dental implant, that implant would support a replacement tooth in the same way that a natural tooth root would support a natural tooth. 

The concept of performing dental implants is not new.  In fact, it has a history that dates back thousands of years.  Egyptian mummies have been found that had gold wire implants in their jawbones.  Skeletons in the Americas have been found with dental implants made of semi-precious stones.  European skeletal remains have exhibited iron dental implants in the jawbone.  In the Middle East as well, skeletons have been found with ivory implants.

Although the methods have obviously changed over time, the concept is still the same.  In our modern world, dental implants began in the United States during the early 1900's and have become increasingly more popular, especially with the increasing popularity of the titanium cylinder.  Now we see several big implant brand name implants and their variations have been approved for use on us as a public consumer.

Some of the various dental implant options that are available include :
    replacing a single tooth that doesn't fit with the other teeth just right so that grinding down or altering adjacent teeth is not necessary
    Using them as anchors to support a fixed bridge
    supporting loose teeth by being splinted to them
    supporting replacement teeth for an entirely toothless jaw
    providing stability for a complete denture to eliminate the moving and clicking associated with dentures

You will want to first discuss your needs with your dentist in order to determine if dental implants are a good option for you.  As part of the assessment, your dentist may require a complete dental history, x-rays and a thorough examination of your teeth and jaw.  This will determine if you are a good candidate for undergoing dental implant surgery.  The whole procedure involves three major steps.
1.    An implant is surgically placed into the bone.  This step is normally performed in the dentist's office with a local anesthetic.  After placement of the implant, a waiting period of about 4 months is usually required for the implant to sufficiently heal.  During this time, the implants should fuse to the bone by a process known as `osseointegration'.
2.    A minor surgery is performed to expose the top of the implant.  At this point the dentist will attach the `post' to the implant.  The post is what will be the support for either one tooth or a set of teeth.  This procedure is also done in the dentist's office and is usually quick and requires only local anesthesia.
3.    This phase is called the restorative phase because this is where your tooth will take on form and function.  The dentist will take an impression of your tooth and then make a prosthesis that will be attached to the implants.  This process will require several visits.  However, once this phase is completed, your teeth will look natural and will be strong once again.

The long-term success of your dental implant will depend largely on the quality and quantity of existing bone.  That is, the stronger the bone and the more bone available, the greater your chance of keeping your implants strong over the long run.  Success will also depend on the quality of work put into your implant.  Like with any surgical procedure, it is as much an art as it is a science and individual talent and experience counts for a lot.
Another indicator of long-term success is the quality of materials used in the restoration atop the implant.  That is, if the design of the implant crowns or overdentures are constructed poorly, your bite will be off-balance and will reduce the life rate of your implant.

Lastly, the success of your implants will depend greatly on how well you maintain them. Brushing and flossing daily is imperative in order to keep them healthy and strong.  You will also want to have your implants professionally cleaned by a hygienist that is trained on how to maintain implants and examined by your implant dentist every three to four months. 

In summary, dental implants are an amazing procedure that allows a periodontist, an oral surgeon or an implantologist to implant a fixture into your jawbone that will fuse to the bone and allow them to construct new teeth that will serve the same role as natural, healthy teeth.

Calcium is a mineral that most people think about in relation to bones.  Teeth and dental health are also closely related to calcium.  Teeth are bones that are more dense than the rest of your skeletal bones.  You need to make sure that you have enough calcium when your teeth are developing and throughout your life as your teeth continue to grow and need calcium.

As an infant and youth, you will need calcium for your teeth to fully develop.  About one third of your body's bones and teeth are made of calcium.  A shortage of calcium and effect how well your teeth develop.  Your last teeth are developing as late as your early twenties.  Milk and dairy products are nature's most concentrated source of calcium, so two to three servings a day help supply the necessary calcium for building strong, dense bones.  Hence, you will want to receive a healthy supply of calcium during year development years.

After all of your teeth are in, you will want to maintain your calcium intake because calcium may also help protect them against decay.  Bones are living tissue and will need to be taken care of properly.  During your development years calcium is deposited in them.  After this period you will no longer have calcium deposited in these bones, but you will want to make sure your body doesn't want for calcium in other areas and need to pull the calcium from your teeth or bones.

A lot of people do not get enough calcium in their diet.  The body will automatically leech calcium from your bones in order to make up for this deficiency.  Teeth are part of your bones and they will also be leeched for their calcium.  When this happens, you are more likely to get cavities and to have trouble with your teeth.

Many people take some type of calcium supplement in order to prevent these things from happening.  You will find many types of calcium supplements in your grocery or drug store.  Not all vitamins are created equal, so you may want to do a little research to find which calcium supplements will be most beneficial.  Vitamin D will help your body absorb the calcium better.  If the body is able to absorb enough calcium, then you may be able to prevent most of the bone loss in your body.

Weight bearing activities will cause new bone tissue to form, which makes bones stronger.  This kind of physical activity also makes muscles stronger.  When muscles push and tug against bones during physical activity, bones and muscles both become stronger.  Weight-bearing activities are those that keep you active and on your feet so that your legs carry your body.  Hence, swimming may be good exercise, but does not build bones.

This logic is also true for your mouth.  You must use your jaw bones and muscles to build them properly.  Calcium is important for you entire skeleton and that includes your jaw.  When a person loses their teeth and begin to wear dentures, jaw will begin to shrink because it is no longer being used in the same weight-bearing activities.  Hence, you will need to continue to use your jaw and teeth in order to keep them healthy. 
 
In summary, calcium is essential for a strong jaw and teeth.  You will need to make sure that you are your family have enough calcium during the development years and enough calcium to prevent any leeching from the bones.  Calcium can also help prevent tooth decay and will be a great asset in providing a healthy smile.  Many people decide calcium supplements are needed to get the proper minerals in their diet.

Cosmetic dentistry has its roots in early civilizations of America, Europe and the Middle East among others.  However, during recent years, cosmetic surgery has really taken off in our society for the average American as well as the high society.

There are many reasons a person might consider cosmetic dentistry, among which are:
    You have dark, stained teeth
    Your teeth are chipped or worn
    You show a lot of gum when you smile
    You are missing teeth
    You have gaps between your front teeth
    Your teeth are crowded and/or crooked
    You have out of date silver fillings that you don't like to show

If you are concerned about any of these aspects of your smile, you might be a good candidate for cosmetic dentistry.   It can improve color and straightness of your teeth, fill gaps and spaces, and repair chips and cracks in your teeth.  It can affect your life by enhancing your appearance which can directly affect your self-confidence and self-esteem.  You can also consider it an investment in your career because according to a 2004 survey reported by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, 74% of adults believe that an unattractive smile has a negative impact on a person's chances for success.

Cost of receiving cosmetic dentistry treatments is a concern for many.  However, with improved methods, stronger, quality materials and a huge increase of patients, treatments are now more affordable than ever.  If it is something you really want, speak with your dentist about your options because there is most likely something that will fit your budget and time constraints.  Even if your treatment will be extensive, you should be able to create a plan that addresses your immediate, short-term, and longer-term goals and also fits your budget.  Cosmetic dentistry is a great investment for anyone wanting to improve the health of their teeth and the attractiveness of their smile.

There are many different things that can be done to improve your smile.  Some of the methods used by dentist are:
    Teeth whitening:  Whitening teeth is one of the most popular forms of cosmetic dentistry.  Methods range from over-the-counter products to dentist bleachings that are performed with a solution and light
    Porcelain veneers: Veneers are superthin porcelain "shells" that are bonded to the front of teeth and provide a strong and beautiful restoration for chipped, cracked, worn, or discolored teeth.
    Tooth Bonding: Bonding is a method where a special resin material is used to shape, construct or cover a problem tooth or teeth.  For example, to close spaces, whiten stained teeth, or reshape chipped teeth.
    Orthodontics: Orthodontic procedures are used to straighten or move teeth and to realign a bite.
    Tooth-colored restorations (such as fillings, inlays, onlays, and crowns):  These methods provide a natural look while repairing and protecting decayed or broken teeth.  All-porcelain crowns are especially healthy for gums because they can be placed above the gumline for a tighter fit.
    Bridges and implants: These are used to replace missing teeth and support remaining teeth.

Of course, nothing works as a better preventative than to take good care of your teeth by brushing and flossing.  Other things you can do to keep your teeth looking healthy and white are to avoid smoking and chewing tobacco as well as foods and beverages that stain your teeth such as berries, coffee, black tea, and red wine.

In summary, if you are concerned about the appearance of your smile because of your teeth or gums, there are many cosmetic dentistry options available to you.  Consult your dentist who should be willing to talk to you about your problems and concerns before beginning any treatment in order to determine what method is right for you.

Sedation dentistry is a method used by dentists and oral surgeons to relax a patient in order to perform a dental procedure.  Sedation can be administered through a pill, laughing gas or intravenously (through an IV).  The different methods have different effects, are used in different circumstances, and range in price, with IVs being the most expensive and the most sedative.

There are many reasons you might want to choose sedation dentistry.  The most common reason this is used is because patients experience fear and anxiety on the dental chair.  In fact, many people even avoid going to the dentist altogether because of their fear.  Some of these have never been and some have had horrible experiences as a child or adult.  Fear can be very difficult to overcome.  In order for many of these people to get their dental needs treated, they have to use sedation.

Another reason you may need to use sedation in dentistry is because your dental needs are very extensive.  You may have no fear of the dentist or dental procedures, but your treatment under normal circumstances may require many appointments to complete.  There are some treatments that may even require months or years to complete the whole process.  In these situations sedation can allow the dentist or oral surgeon to complete the required treatment usually in only one visit.  Additionally, many people find themselves very busy with work and family obligations and it can be difficult to arrange multiple appointments.  This is another case in which you may choose sedation. 

As stated previously, there are different types of sedation.  Usually when people think of sedation they think of general anesthesia.  This type of sedation is called general because the entire body is put to sleep.  This requires that you be hooked up to a machine to help you breath.  Intravenous sedation or IV sedation requires that you receive the sedative through an IV, usually in your arm.  This method is often used in out-patient procedures performed in the office of oral surgeons.  IV sedation works well for short appointments.  The other sedation method is oral.  This method requires that you take a pill that will put you in a relaxed, restful, and amnesic state.   This method is considered very safe because you need no assistance breathing, your reflexes are still intact, and it is very difficult to overdose on the medication.

Sedation is a great option because you will remember little or nothing of your dental appointment and what occurred during your dental procedure.  This is very appealing for those that have difficulty with fear and anxiety.  The pill option is especially preferable in these situations because they forego having to consciously receive needles as well.  I say consciously because since your reflexes will still function normally under this type of sedation, local anesthesia is also required, but because of its amnesic effect, you won't remember a bit of it.

If you choose sedation, you will want to keep in mind that you will not be in any position to transport yourself home.  You will no longer be unconscious, but you will not be allowed to drive yourself home because you will most likely still be drowsy and disoriented.  Make sure that you arrange to have somebody transport you.

In most cases, patients who have been sedated will not experience discomfort the next day, aside for the pain that may be associated from whatever procedure they went through.  You can expect to feel drowsy and maybe a little nauseous, but these side effects can be due to the fact that you have not eaten for hours (you will probably receive instructions to not eat for several hours before going under sedation).  Once you have eaten and gotten a little rest, you should feel fine and be able to go about your normal activities by the next day.
  
In summary, sedation dentistry is a safe and effective way of relieving the fear and anxiety associated with going to the dentist.  It allows you to relax and have little or no memory of your dental appointments.

Although you should take good care of your teeth on a daily basis by brushing and flossing regularly, there are some things that can be missed that a dentist can help you with.  Semi-annual check-ups and cleanings are very important to your oral health.  Your visit to see your dentist every six months serves several different purposes.  The most important reason is to give your teeth a deep and thorough cleansing.  Other important aspects of a check-up are having an evaluation to check for any problems and getting x-rays.

Professional Cleanings: Assuming you have no other issues with your teeth or mouth, you should always plan to visit your dentist twice a year for a cleaning.  Aside from brushing and flossing, this serves as a foundation for preventing gum disease and tooth decay.  Your professional cleaning or dental prophylaxis is normally performed by a certified dental hygienist who will:
    Remove plaque from the teeth which is the sticky substance that collects on your teeth.  Plaque harbors bacteria that produces acid which, if not removed, can gradually wear down your teeth and irritate your gums.  Plaque must be removed in order to prevent tooth decay and gum disease.
    Remove tartar or calculus from above the gum line.  Tartar is plaque that has hardened on the tooth surface and can be difficult to remove.  A hygienist knows what to look for and has the materials to remove any existing calculus.
    Polish and remove stains from teeth if you choose.  This is not necessarily a regular procedure but one that you can elect to have a hygienist perform.

Dental Examinations: Receiving a dental examination is an important part of a good check-up.  Performing an examination can help to diagnose a disease before it becomes a serious problem which can lead to health issues, irreparable damage and large medical bills.  A dental examination generally will include:
    Oral cancer screening
    Gum disease evaluation
    Visual examination of tooth decay
    Examination of diagnostic x-rays to see cysts, tumors, invisible decay and other problems that can't be seen by the naked eye
    Evaluation of status of current restorations (fillings and others)

X-rays: X-rays are used to find conditions that are not visible in a visual examination.  The information that an x-ray provides is essential for making and confirming a diagnosis.  If you are able to find a potential problem before it actually becomes a problem, you can avoid a lot of pain, health problems and further damage.  Using an x-ray, your dentist will be able to see:
developing permanent teeth and note any abnormalities or missing teeth.
    any extra teeth that might cause damage to the developing permanent teeth.
    decay that might be developing between the teeth so that it can be treated at an early stage before more serious damage is done.
    decay that might be occurring under old fillings so that it can be treated before damage to the dental pulp occurs.
    an abscesses that may have formed at the end of the root of a tooth.  Treating this condition can save the tooth.
    bone loss around the teeth.  This is a sign of periodontal disease and x-rays are an important part of diagnosis and treatment.
    the shape of the roots which is important to know for some treatments.
    broken and retained root fragments that can lead to infections.
    benign and malignant tumors.
    impacted teeth, particularly third molars.  Seeing these will help them make a decision to remove them or not.

There are many advantages to having semi-annual dental cleanings done.  An ounce of prevention goes a long way, so don't wait until you have a disease to treat.  Make sure to make those appointments.

Having a thorough, professional cleaning performed by a dental hygienist is an integral part of good oral hygiene.  Experts have recommended that for the majority of people, a regular dental cleaning and check-up be performed every six months or twice a year.  However, depending you your circumstances, you dentist may recommend that you schedule appointments more often. 

You may be considered at greater risk for oral diseases if you use alcohol and tobacco, you have diabetes, you are pregnant, you have periodontal or gum disease, you have poor oral hygiene or you have some other medical condition.  All these are things that your dental professional will take into consideration when deciding how often you need to have an examination and cleaning performed.

Having regular check-ups has many benefits.  Along with brushing and flossing regularly, you will be able to keep your teeth and gums health and strong.  You will also be able to detect any early problems such as gum disease, oral cancer and cavities.   Ten reasons you should visit your dentist every six months are:
1.    To prevent oral cancer: When you go in for your routine check-up, your dentist will perform an evaluation on you in order to determine if you have any problems developing, one of which is oral cancer.  This disease has a high rate of curability if diagnosed and treated early on.
2.    To prevent gum disease: Gum disease includes gingivitis and periodontitis.  These are infections of the gum tissues.  If left untreated, gingivitis will progress into periodontitis which is the loss of bone that keeps your teeth in place.  If diagnosed early, the process can be treated and reversed.  If not, it can at least be treated and controlled. 
3.    To help maintain good physical health: heart attacks and gum disease have been linked to gum disease in some studies which is a direct result of poor oral hygiene.  Having a thorough cleaning performed every six months will help keep your teeth and gums healthy and could possibly reduce your risk of heart disease and strokes.
4.    To keep your natural teeth: gum disease is one of the leading causes of tooth loss in adults.  Regular maintenance of your teeth, which includes semi-annual check-ups, will greatly increase your chances of keeping the teeth you have.
5.    To detect dental problems early on: having an oral evaluation and x-rays taken will give your dentist a very good idea what is going on in your mouth.  They will be able to detect any signs of problems with your teeth and gums.  Doing so will help them to treat them early and prevent painful, expensive problems from developing.  If early signs of cavities, broken fillings and gum disease are left untreated, root canals, gum surgery and loss of teeth could become your only choices. 
6.    To maintain good oral health: your dental professionals will be able to advise you on how to take care of your teeth properly.  If they see inconsistencies with other check-ups, they should be able to help you determine what habits are lacking and help you to re-establish them.
7.    To take advantage of your dental insurance: dental insurance plans usually pay for all or most of preventative check-ups and cleanings every six months.  Take advantage of this or you may have more expensive problems to fix and have to pay out more for them.
8.    To create a treatment plan: if your mouth requires extensive work, you can discuss this with your dentist to determine how long, it will take, how much it will cost, and you can set up a plan to get it all taken care of.
9.    To have a brighter, whiter smile: teeth whitening is becoming popular, simpler, and much more affordable.  Treatments can be performed in the office or you can receive at home treatments to use in between check-ups. 
10.    To take time out of your hectic schedule: many people find the time spent in the sitting room and on a dentist chair to be very relaxing and invigorating.  Use the time to read a little or do some quiet meditating before heading back to the office or home to the kids.

Finally, the best way to maintain good oral health is to visit your dentist on a regular basis.
Keep your options open by not condemning yourself to experiencing advanced, irreversible oral problems.

As is evident in fossils that have withstood centuries of wear, tooth enamel is one of the hardiest parts of the human body.  However, teeth still have their breaking point.  If you were to receive a hard hit to the mouth, chances of damaging a tooth are great. 
Some breaks can be classified as cosmetic problems, but others are true emergencies.  Breaking a tooth can be painful, but not taking the proper steps to care for it can also be dangerous. Knowing what to do in the event of a broken tooth is not something you often think about, but can be very important.
Tooth breaks can range anywhere from minor chips to major fractures.  There are three layers to a tooth which are the enamel, dentin and the pulp.  The enamel is the hard outer coating.  The main part of the tooth is the dentin and the fleshy nerve center of the tooth is what is known as the pulp. 
Generally when people chip a tooth, they have just knocked off a chunk of the enamel.  These breaks are not normally painful but are more of a cosmetic problem.  However, if enough enamel breaks off, the dentin can be exposed.  This break is not often painful either, but it can cause the tooth to be extremely sensitive to cold.  The worst breaks expose the pulp and are extremely painful and cause bleeding from the tooth.
If you have a minor chip in your tooth, this is not considered an emergency and you are not in any danger of losing your tooth.  You will want to make an appointment to get in to see your dentist within the next week or so.  If you experience any discomfort, you can take an over-the- counter painkiller such as ibuprofen. 
If your tooth is fractured, you can consider it a dental emergency since exposed nerve tissue could become infected.  First, rinse your mouth with warm water and call your dentist to get in to see them right away.  Take a painkiller (not aspirin which can increase the risk of heavy bleeding), and put an ice pack or cold compress on your mouth to reduce the swelling, control bleeding and ease the pain. 
If your tooth has been knocked out, you should get to your dentist immediately, because chances are, they may be able to reimplant the tooth.  To perform a successful implant though, the tooth still needs to be "alive", so you will need to take good care in transporting the tooth and do so quickly.  When handling the tooth, only touch the chewing end, not the root.  You can use any of the following options to transport the tooth.
    Put the tooth back in the socket. Bite down on gauze or a wet tea bag to help keep it in place.
    Store the tooth in a small container covered with a small amount of whole milk or saliva.
    If you cannot get it into the socket, the tooth can be carried between the lower lip and lower gum or under the gum. (Be careful not to swallow the tooth.)
    Special devices called Save-a-Tooth and EMT Tooth Saver, which contain a case and a special fluid to use if a tooth is knocked out, may be available from your dentist to keep in your first-aid kit.
Once you get in to see the dentist, depending on the severity of your break, your dentist will take different approaches.  Minor chips usually don't require treatment unless cosmetic.  If you don't like the way it looks, your dentist can either smooth out the chip or fill it in with a composite material.
If the dentin has been exposed during the break, your dentist can cover it with a hard, enamel-like coating.  If the pulp is still healthy, the tooth can usually be completely fixed with a permanent crown.  However, if the pulp is damaged a root canal treatment may need to be performed in order to remove all or part of the damaged pulp before putting on a crown.
Your dentist will probably want to follow up to make sure your tooth is healing well.  You will want to go easy on that tooth for a while and keep it clean and safe.  Make sure to brush and floss every day and wear a mouthguard when you play sports. 

You can prevent gum disease.  More than 75 percent of Americans over 35 have some form of gum disease. In its earliest stage, your gums might swell and bleed easily.  At its worst, you might lose your teeth. The bottom line is if you want to keep your teeth, you must take care of your gums.

In order for you to prevent periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, you will need to understand what it is and its symptoms.  Gum Disease is an infection in the gums surrounding the teeth.  Gum disease is also one of the main causes of tooth loss among adults.  There are two major stages of gum disease: Gingivitis and Periodontitis.

Regular dental exams are important and are key in diagnosing gum disease early. 
Gingivitis: Gingivitis is the early stage of gum disease and can be treated and reversed if diagnosed early.  The signs and symptoms are red, swollen and puffy gums that bleed easily.  If treatment is not received, gingivitis could lead to periodontitis.

Periodontitis: Periodontitis is the serious and advanced stage of gum disease which includes bone loss and is irreversible.  The gum tissue and bone surrounding the teeth could become seriously damaged and the teeth affected could become loose and fall out.

Gum disease can affect more than your dental health.  The American Dental Association has said that they have found that bacteria in the mouth which is associated with gum disease may be linked to heart disease, artery blockages and stroke.  You have more than your oral health to consider when controlling gum disease.

Some symptoms of gum disease are:
-    frequent bad breath
-    red and swollen gums that bleed easily
-    loose teeth
-    change in your bite
-    change in the way partials or dentures fit

By practicing good oral hygiene, you can minimize your chances of getting gum disease.  The following procedures can help you:

1.  Brush your teeth, without fail, twice a day.  Brushing will be your number one defense against gum disease.  Your teeth builds up plaque during the day and brushing is the best method to remove the plaque from the surface of your teeth before it hardens into calculus.  Plaque will cause tooth decay and leads to gum disease.

2.  Use a toothpaste that has fluoride.  Your teeth need fluoride and it will help prevent tooth decay.

3.  Floss your teeth at least once a day.  Your toothbrush does not reach all of the spaces between your teeth.  Flossing is the only way to remove plaque from in between your teeth that your toothbrush can not reach.

4.  An antimicrobial mouth wash will also provide an extra layer of protection against plaque.  You can choose from a variety of flavors, but they should be approved by the American Dental Association.

5.  Visit your dentist for regular check ups.  Visiting your dentist on a regular basis is the best way to make sure that your teeth and gums stay healthy.  Your dentist will be able to see and recognize issues early on and help you prevent gum disease.  A dentist will be able to tell if you are properly brushing and flossing.  If you are not, they can identify this and teach you the best ways to do so.

In summary, most people acquire some type of gum disease as they get older.  With proper care and attention you can prevent or greatly reduce your chances of developing gum disease.  As always brushing and flossing daily will be key in your dental hygiene efforts.  You should practice good oral hygiene and regularly visit your dentist.

Preventing bone loss is important to your entire skeleton, but it is also very important to your mouth.  Your mouth is full of teeth which are also bones.  When you are losing bone mass you are also losing calcium from your teeth.  Hence, if you allow yourself to have bone loss, you most likely have problems with your teeth.

If you're not getting enough calcium in your diet, over time your body will have to use the calcium stored up in your bones and teeth in order to make up for the shortfall.  Slowly and silently, your bones and teeth will become less dense and more brittle.  You may also have more tooth decay than normal.

Osteoporosis is the disease you get when you lose too much bone mass.  Your bones literally become hollow.  Your teeth will do the same thing.  The two ways that you can get osteoporosis is by not getting enough calcium deposited in your bones during your development years or by having bone loss too quickly once you get into the bone loss years.  This is why consistent calcium intake is so important.

The National Osteoporosis Foundation (NOF) recommends that you can build bone strength and maintain bone health by:
1.    Eating a balanced diet with lots of calcium and Vitamin D.
2.    Living a healthy lifestyle, exercising, and not smoking or drinking to excess.
3.    Getting bone density tests and taking treatment as recommended by your doctor.

Calcium intake is clearly important.  Many people find it necessary to take calcium supplements.  NOF recommends coral calcium as the best source of calcium intake.  Coral calcium is more bio-available than other supplements or dietary calcium.  Since fossilized coral calcium is ionic, it gets into your bloodstream more easily, and your body can direct it to build bone strength or replenish bone calcium deficits.

Vitamin D helps your body absorb the calcium better.  Hence, you will want to make sure you are getting enough Vitamin D in your diet.  Vitamin D comes from milk, cod liver oil, fish, and shellfish — but you have to make sure you get some sun for the Vitamin D to be activated and work together with the calcium in your body.  So, it is recommended coral calcium supplements that contain Vitamin D to help with calcium absorption.

Women are most often the victim of osteoporosis.  However, men are not exempt and many millions suffer from this disease.  Do not think that you are not at risk of developing osteoporosis.

Because it is hard to replace bone that is lost, prevention is key.  Beginning a lifelong commitment to exercise and healthy nutrition while you are still young will reduce your risk of developing this condition later in life.  Remember, you are never too young to think about preventing osteoporosis.

For women, exercise increases bone mass before menopause and helps to reduce bone loss after menopause.  Bone strength increases with regular exercise and to help prevent bone loss weight-bearing exercise such as walking, low-impact aerobics, or tennis work best.

If you feel that you are at risk for osteoporosis, talk with you physician.  You physician may order a bone density scan which is a simple and painless tool that measures bone density.  Women who do not take estrogen after menopause have other options for preventing osteoporosis including drugs such as calcitonin which slows bone loss.  Your physician can help you determine what is best for you.

In summary, you are never too young or old to work at preventing bone loss.  A good healthy diet and exercise is your best methods to build and maintain bone mass.  Additionally, calcium supplements with vitamin D are recommended to make sure you get enough calcium to prevent bone and calcium loss in your teeth.

You can prevent the need for dentures.  The best way to prevent ever needing dentures is to take care of your teeth now.  Gum disease can eventually lead to tooth loss.  More than 75 percent of Americans over 35 have some form of gum disease.  Also, 60% of Americans between the ages of 35 and 44 have lost at least one permanent tooth.  Gum disease at its worst, may cause you to lose your teeth.  The bottom line is if you want to keep your teeth and never wear dentures, you must take care of your gums.

Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, can be prevented if you understand what it is and what its symptoms are.  Gum Disease is an infection in the gums surrounding the teeth.  Gum disease is also one of the main causes of tooth loss among adults.  There are two major stages of gum disease: Gingivitis and Periodontitis.

Regular dental exams will be important for diagnosing gum disease in its early stages. 
Gingivitis: Gingivitis is the early stage of gum disease.  Additionally, it can be treated and reversed if diagnosed early enough.  The signs and symptoms of gingivitis are red, swollen and puffy gums that bleed easily.  If you do not recognize and receive treatment for gingivitis in its early stages it can lead to periodontitis.

Periodontitis: Periodontitis is more serious and when it becomes advanced it can result in bone loss and this loss is not reversible.  The gum tissue and bone surrounding the teeth could become seriously damaged and the teeth affected could become loose and fall out. 

Some symptoms of gum disease are:
-    You may experience frequent bad breath
-    Also red and swollen gums that bleed easily
-    You may have loose teeth
-    A change in your bite may be an indicator
-    Lastly, a change in the way partials or dentures fit

By practicing good dental hygiene, you may prevent getting gum disease.  The following procedures can help you:

1.  Brush your teeth twice a day.  Brushing your teeth is your best defense against gum disease.  Plaque will build up during the day and will need to be removed by brushing.  Plaque that is not removed will turn into calculus.  Plaque will cause tooth decay and leads to gum disease.

2.  Make sure that you use a tooth with fluoride.  Fluoride is a good way to prevent tooth decay.

3.  Flossing is the only way to reach the spaces between you teeth to remove plaque.  Floss your teeth at least once a day.  Your toothbrush does not reach all of the spaces between your teeth. 

4.  An antimicrobial mouth wash will also provide an extra layer of protection against plaque.  You can choose from a variety of flavors, but they should be approved by the American Dental Association.

5.  Last, you will want to maintain regular visits to your dentist.  Your dentist will be able to see and recognize issues early on and help you prevent gum disease.  A dentist will be able to tell if you are properly brushing and flossing.  If you are not, they can identify this and teach you the best ways to do so.

In summary, most people acquire some type of gum disease as they get older which is the number one reason for the loss of teeth and hence the use of dentures.  With proper care and attention you can prevent or greatly reduce your chances of developing gum disease.  As always brushing and flossing daily will be key in your dental hygiene efforts.  You should practice good oral hygiene and regularly visit your dentist.