--- title: LifeSmiles (7) description: The LifeSmiles blog empowers individuals struggling with dental problems to find reliable, practical information and advice on dental implants and how to find a qualified implant expert. Our goal is to ensure that quality care and peace of mind is available to every dental implant patient. (7) --- [![AAID Credentialed Dentists](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/hubfs/AAID_March2018%20Theme/images/logo_bw-desktop.png)](https://www.aaid-implant.org) [Menu](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/page/7#tm-mobile) - [Dental Implants](https://www.aaid-implant.org/what-are-dental-implants/) - [Everything You Ever Wanted to Know About Dental Implants](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/everythingyoueverwantedtoknowaboutdentalimplants) - [Who Can Benefit?](https://www.aaid-implant.org/what-are-dental-implants/who-can-benefit/) - [What to Expect](https://www.aaid-implant.org/what-are-dental-implants/what-to-expect/) - [Types of Implants & Techniques](https://www.aaid-implant.org/what-are-dental-implants/types-of-implants-and-techniques/) - [Implants vs. Dentures & Bridges](https://www.aaid-implant.org/what-are-dental-implants/implants-vs-dentures-and-bridges/) - [Common reasons individuals need implants](https://www.aaid-implant.org/what-are-dental-implants/implants-vs-dentures-and-bridges/) - [AAID Credentials](https://www.aaid-implant.org/expertise-you-can-trust/) - [Training, Experience & Credentials](https://www.aaid-implant.org/expertise-you-can-trust/training-experience-and-credentials/) - [3 Reasons to Choose an AAID-Credentialed Dentist](https://aaid-implant.org/expertise-you-can-trust/three-reasons-to-choose-an-aaid-credentialed-dentist/) - [What Patients Say](https://www.aaid-implant.org/category/what-patients-say/) - [Answers from AAID-Credentialed Dentists](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/answers-from-aaid-credentialed-dentists) - [Value and Cost](https://www.aaid-implant.org/value-and-cost/) - [Find an Implant Dentist](https://www.aaid-implant.org/find-an-implant-dentist/) [Find an Implant Dentist](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/find-an-implant-dentist/) - - - - - - [FAQs](https://www.aaid-implant.org/faqs/) - [LifeSmiles Blog](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/) - [American Academy of Implant Dentistry](http://aaid.com/) - - - - - [![AAID Credentialed Dentists](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/hubfs/AAID_March2018%20Theme/images/logo_bw-desktop.png)](https://www.aaid-implant.org) - [Dental Implants How They Work](https://www.aaid-implant.org/what-are-dental-implants/) - [Everything You Ever Wanted to Know About Dental Implants](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/everythingyoueverwantedtoknowaboutdentalimplants) - [Who Can Benefit?](https://www.aaid-implant.org/what-are-dental-implants/who-can-benefit/) - [What to Expect](https://www.aaid-implant.org/what-are-dental-implants/what-to-expect/) - [Types of Implants & Techniques](https://www.aaid-implant.org/what-are-dental-implants/types-of-implants-and-techniques/) - [Implants vs. Dentures & Bridges](https://www.aaid-implant.org/what-are-dental-implants/implants-vs-dentures-and-bridges/) - [Common reasons individuals need implants](https://www.aaid-implant.org/what-are-dental-implants/implants-vs-dentures-and-bridges/) - [AAID Credentials Why They Matter](https://www.aaid-implant.org/expertise-you-can-trust/) - [Training, Experience & Credentials](https://www.aaid-implant.org/expertise-you-can-trust/training-experience-and-credentials/) - [3 Reasons to Choose an AAID-Credentialed Dentist](https://aaid-implant.org/expertise-you-can-trust/three-reasons-to-choose-an-aaid-credentialed-dentist/) - [What Patients Say](https://www.aaid-implant.org/category/what-patients-say/) - [Answers from AAID-Credentialed Dentists](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/answers-from-aaid-credentialed-dentists) - [Value and Cost What You Should Know](https://www.aaid-implant.org/value-and-cost/) - [Are you a Candidate for Dental Implants?](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/everythingyoueverwantedtoknowaboutdentalimplants) - [Dental Implants Resources](https://aaid-implant.org/dental-implant-resources/) - [Find an Implant Dentist](https://www.aaid-implant.org/find-an-implant-dentist/) [Find an Implant Dentist](https://www.aaid-implant.org/find-an-implant-dentist/) # ![LifeSmiles](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/hubfs/Logos/LifeSmiles_white550px.png) ## [Change Your Life with Dental Implants](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/dental-implants-change-your-life) August 30, 2019 - [Tweet](https://twitter.com/share) [![Group of students studying outdoors and looking very happy](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/hubfs/Stock%20images/Group%20of%20students%20studying%20outdoors%20and%20looking%20very%20happy.jpeg)](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/dental-implants-change-your-life) Plenty of things can change your life. Winning the lottery, for one. But when it comes to living your life to the fullest, there’s nothing like a great-looking smile to build confidence and make you feel like you’re putting your best foot forward. If you’re [missing teeth](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/teeth-in-a-day-myth-or-reality), smiling can often be a struggle. Along with chewing your favorite foods, speaking comfortably and naturally, or even being as active as you’d wish. [Read More](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/dental-implants-change-your-life) 6 Comments [Click here to read/write comments](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/dental-implants-change-your-life#comments-listing) Topics: [Getting started with dental implants](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/tag/getting-started-with-dental-implants), [what to know about implants](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/tag/what-to-know-about-implants), [Board Certified Implant Dentist](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/tag/board-certified-implant-dentist), [Credentialed Implant Dentist](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/tag/credentialed-implant-dentist) ## [Don’t Let Dental Anxiety Prevent You from Improving Your Smile](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/dont-let-dental-anxiety-prevent-you-from-improving-your-smile) July 22, 2019 - [Tweet](https://twitter.com/share) [![Teeth checkup at dentists office](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/hubfs/Stock%20images/Teeth%20checkup%20at%20dentists%20office.jpeg)](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/dont-let-dental-anxiety-prevent-you-from-improving-your-smile) Patients are often [anxious](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/tag/dental-anxiety) about the [process of getting dental implants](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/tag/dental-implant-process). It's a significant oral surgery, but can have many long-term positive effects on your appearance, smile and dental health. It's important to keep in mind that dental implant surgery, when performed by a [qualified implant dentist](https://www.aaid-implant.org/find-an-implant-dentist/), is the most effective method of replacing missing teeth. It has an excellent success rate, and provides stable, long-lasting replacements for your natural teeth. These results simply can’t be duplicated with older methods, like bridgework. There are several questions and concerns I often hear from patients in my own practice. Here are the honest answers I provide to my patients to help address these anxieties: [Read More](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/dont-let-dental-anxiety-prevent-you-from-improving-your-smile) 11 Comments [Click here to read/write comments](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/dont-let-dental-anxiety-prevent-you-from-improving-your-smile#comments-listing) Topics: [Getting started with dental implants](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/tag/getting-started-with-dental-implants), [dental implant process](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/tag/dental-implant-process), [Dental implant procedure](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/tag/dental-implant-procedure), [Dental anxiety](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/tag/dental-anxiety) ## [Questions to Ask Before Choosing an Implant Dentist](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/dental-implant-questions-to-ask-before-choosing-an-implant-dentist) June 18, 2019 - [Tweet](https://twitter.com/share) [![before-choosing-an-implant-dentist-1](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/hubfs/before-choosing-an-implant-dentist-1.png)](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/dental-implant-questions-to-ask-before-choosing-an-implant-dentist)   If you're looking for information regarding [dental implants](https://www.aaid-implant.org/dental-implants/what-are-dental-implants/), there's no resource more trusted than  the [American Academy of Implant Dentistry](https://www.aaid.com/about/index.html) (AAID), the oldest organization in the world dedicated to implant dentistry.   We asked [Dr. Sanford N. Schwartz, DDS, FAAID](https://implantandcosmeticdentistry.com/team-member/sanford-schwartz/), a Fellow of the AAID, to weigh in on some of the most [frequently asked questions](https://www.aaid-implant.org/faqs/) about dental implants. [Read More](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/dental-implant-questions-to-ask-before-choosing-an-implant-dentist) 18 Comments [Click here to read/write comments](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/dental-implant-questions-to-ask-before-choosing-an-implant-dentist#comments-listing) Topics: [Getting started with dental implants](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/tag/getting-started-with-dental-implants), [Choosing an implant dentist](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/tag/choosing-an-implant-dentist), [dental implant process](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/tag/dental-implant-process), [what to know about implants](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/tag/what-to-know-about-implants), [Credentialed Implant Dentist](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/tag/credentialed-implant-dentist) ## [3 Reasons to Choose an AAID-credentialed Implant Dentist](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/3-reasons-to-choose-an-aaid-credentialed-dentist) May 31, 2019 - [Tweet](https://twitter.com/share) [![Choosing-an-implant-dentist](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/hubfs/Stock%20images/Closeup%20portrait%20female%20health%20care%20professional,%20dentist,%20holding%20showing%20panoramic%20dental%20X-ray,%20consulting%20woman%20patient%20having%20toothache..jpeg)](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/3-reasons-to-choose-an-aaid-credentialed-dentist)   If you’re considering dental implants, it’s important to choose a dentist with experience and knowledge you can trust. Here are three reasons why it’s a smart move to select a dental implant dentist credentialed by the American Academy of Implant Dentistry (AAID): [Read More](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/3-reasons-to-choose-an-aaid-credentialed-dentist) 4 Comments [Click here to read/write comments](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/3-reasons-to-choose-an-aaid-credentialed-dentist#comments-listing) Topics: [Getting started with dental implants](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/tag/getting-started-with-dental-implants), [Choosing an implant dentist](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/tag/choosing-an-implant-dentist), [what to know about implants](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/tag/what-to-know-about-implants), [Board Certified Implant Dentist](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/tag/board-certified-implant-dentist), [Credentialed Implant Dentist](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/tag/credentialed-implant-dentist) ## [Are You Eating Your Way to Tooth Loss?](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/eating-your-way-to-tooth-loss) May 16, 2019 - [Tweet](https://twitter.com/share) [![Vaping-vs-Smoking2-1](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/hubfs/Vaping-vs-Smoking2-1.jpg)](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/eating-your-way-to-tooth-loss)   Have you lost one or more teeth? Then it may be helpful to have a discussion with an implant dentist about the types of food you eat.  Studies suggest that the "inflammatory potential" of your diet can impact your oral health. Specifically, researchers found that an anti-inflammatory diet may lead to fewer lost teeth. The data in this [research](https://www.dentistrytoday.com/news/todays-dental-news/item/2132-anti-inflammatory-diets-prevent-tooth-loss) came from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. [Read More](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/eating-your-way-to-tooth-loss) 3 Comments [Click here to read/write comments](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/eating-your-way-to-tooth-loss#comments-listing) Topics: [overall health](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/tag/overall-health) ## [Your Dentist Might Be the First to Notice Your High Blood Pressure](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/your-dentist-might-be-the-first-to-notice-your-high-blood-pressure) April 30, 2019 - [Tweet](https://twitter.com/share) [![Dentist-High-Blood-Pressure](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/hubfs/HighBloodPressure-1.jpg)](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/your-dentist-might-be-the-first-to-notice-your-high-blood-pressure) Everyone knows regular visits to the dentist are important. But they may be even more beneficial than you thought. Why? Because you might have hypertension without realizing it. Often referred to as high blood pressure, hypertension often has no significant signs or symptoms, yet it can cause serious health problems. [Read More](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/your-dentist-might-be-the-first-to-notice-your-high-blood-pressure) 4 Comments [Click here to read/write comments](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/your-dentist-might-be-the-first-to-notice-your-high-blood-pressure#comments-listing) Topics: [overall health](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/tag/overall-health) ## [Do You Have a Successful Smile?](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/do-you-have-a-successful-smile) April 15, 2019 - [Tweet](https://twitter.com/share) [![Successful-Smile___](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/hubfs/Successful-Smile___.jpg)](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/do-you-have-a-successful-smile)   What do people think about your smile? Would they describe it as "effective," "genuine," and "pleasant"?   It's not simply a question of vanity. These characteristics of a "successful smile" provide important reference points for surgeons and [implant dentists](https://www.aaid-implant.org/aaid-credentials/training-experience-and-credentials/) that have patients recovering from accidents or strokes that affect their smiles. [Read More](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/do-you-have-a-successful-smile) 0 Comments [Click here to read/write comments](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/do-you-have-a-successful-smile#comments-listing) Topics: [overall health](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/tag/overall-health) ## [The 4 Characteristics of a Candidate for Dental Implants](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/characteristics-of-a-candidate-for-dental-implants) March 6, 2019 - [Tweet](https://twitter.com/share) [![AAID-consulting_A_Dentist](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/hubfs/AAID-consulting_A_Dentist.jpg)](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/characteristics-of-a-candidate-for-dental-implants)   Even if you’ve [done your research](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/5-things-you-should-know-about-dental-implants) on dental implants, you may be wondering if you are qualified to get them. There’s no one-size-fits-all solution, but chances are you will fit the bill.   According to the American Academy of Implant Dentistry (AAID), the best candidates for dental implants share four characteristics. [Read More](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/characteristics-of-a-candidate-for-dental-implants) 11 Comments [Click here to read/write comments](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/characteristics-of-a-candidate-for-dental-implants#comments-listing) Topics: [Getting started with dental implants](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/tag/getting-started-with-dental-implants), [what to know about implants](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/tag/what-to-know-about-implants) ## [How to Find an Implant Dentist You Trust](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/implant-dentist-you-trust) February 19, 2019 - [Tweet](https://twitter.com/share) [![Implant-Dentist](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/hubfs/Implant-Dentist.png)](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/implant-dentist-you-trust) Word has it you’re looking to get dental implants. A quick Google search will yield hundreds of results—but where on Earth can you find an implant dentist that you trust? For starters, you should find a dentist with credentialing and expertise in implant dentistry. Many general dentists offer implant services at their practice; however, most do not have the expertise in all phases of implant dentistry that an AAID-credentialed member possesses. The success rate of dental implants has been reported to be as high as 90-95% (source: [Journal of Oral Implantology](https://www.joionline.org/doi/full/10.1563/1548-1336%282008%2934%5B283%3ASROTEE%5D2.0.CO%3B2)), making it one of the most predictable dental procedures. [Read More](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/implant-dentist-you-trust) 9 Comments [Click here to read/write comments](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/implant-dentist-you-trust#comments-listing) Topics: [Choosing an implant dentist](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/tag/choosing-an-implant-dentist) ## [Why It's Important to Discuss Medications with Your Implant Dentist](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/why-its-important-to-discuss-medications-with-your-implant-dentist) September 11, 2018 - [Tweet](https://twitter.com/share) [![Dentist in mask looking at camera beside chair at the dental clinic](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/hubfs/Stock%20images/Dentist%20in%20mask%20looking%20at%20camera%20beside%20chair%20at%20the%20dental%20clinic.jpeg)](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/why-its-important-to-discuss-medications-with-your-implant-dentist) As a patient, getting a dental implant can seem simple, straightforward, and easy. But that is primarily because your implant dentist is highly trained, experienced, and—in the case of those [credentialed by AAID](https://www.aaid-implant.org/aaid-credentials/expertise-you-can-trust/)—a dental implant expert. One of the important factors your implant dentist considers is how any drugs or supplements you take will affect the implant process. This includes herbal supplements, blood thinners, antidepressants, tobacco, osteoporosis medication, and anything else you take or use. [Read More](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/why-its-important-to-discuss-medications-with-your-implant-dentist) 6 Comments [Click here to read/write comments](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/why-its-important-to-discuss-medications-with-your-implant-dentist#comments-listing) Topics: [dental implant process](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/tag/dental-implant-process), [what to know about implants](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/tag/what-to-know-about-implants) [Previous](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/page/6) [All posts](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/all) [Next](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/page/8) ## About LifeSmiles The LifeSmiles blog empowers individuals struggling with dental problems to find reliable, practical information and advice on dental implants and how to find a qualified implant expert. Our goal is to ensure that quality care and peace of mind is available to every dental implant patient. ### Learn more about... - [what to know about implants (35)](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/tag/what-to-know-about-implants) - [Dental implant procedure (23)](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/tag/dental-implant-procedure) - [overall health (23)](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/tag/overall-health) - [Getting started with dental implants (22)](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/tag/getting-started-with-dental-implants) - [dental implant process (18)](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/tag/dental-implant-process) - [health connection (15)](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/tag/health-connection) - [Choosing an implant dentist (14)](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/tag/choosing-an-implant-dentist) - [FAQs (10)](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/tag/faqs) - [Board Certified Implant Dentist (8)](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/tag/board-certified-implant-dentist) - [Credentialed Implant Dentist (8)](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/tag/credentialed-implant-dentist) - [dental implant research (7)](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/tag/dental-implant-research) - [Dental Implant Journey (6)](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/tag/dental-implant-journey) - [Bone Loss (5)](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/tag/bone-loss) - [Dental Implant Awareness Month (4)](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/tag/dental-implant-awareness-month) - [Implant Complications (4)](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/tag/implant-complications) - [Replacement Techniques (4)](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/tag/replacement-techniques) - [timeline for implants (4)](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/tag/timeline-for-implants) - [All-on-4 (2)](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/tag/all-on-4) - [COVID-19 (2)](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/tag/covid-19) - [mini dental implants (2)](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/tag/mini-dental-implants) - [Dental Implant Trends (1)](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/tag/dental-implant-trends) - [Dental anxiety (1)](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/tag/dental-anxiety) - [Dental costs (1)](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/tag/dental-costs) - [Gum disease (1)](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/tag/gum-disease) - [Immediate Implants (1)](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/tag/immediate-implants) - [Implant-Retained Dentures (1)](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/tag/implant-retained-dentures) - [Implantology (1)](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/tag/implantology) - [Magnetic Click-On Implants (1)](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/tag/magnetic-click-on-implants) - [Osteoporosis (1)](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/tag/osteoporosis) - [TMJ (1)](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/tag/tmj) - [Tooth Extraction (1)](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/tag/tooth-extraction) - [diabetes (1)](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/tag/diabetes) - [orthodontics (1)](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/tag/orthodontics) see all ### Explore by most recent: - [Home](https://www.aaid-implant.org/) - [Dental Implants: How They Work](https://www.aaid-implant.org/dental-implants/what-are-dental-implants/) - [AAID Credentials: Why They Matter](https://www.aaid-implant.org/aaid-credentials/expertise-you-can-trust/) - [Value & Cost: What You Should Know](https://www.aaid-implant.org/value-and-cost/) - [Find an Implant Dentist](https://www.aaid-implant.org/find-an-implant-dentist/) - [Terms of Use](https://www.aaid-implant.org/terms-of-use/) - [Sitemap](https://www.aaid-implant.org/site-map/) - [Search](https://www.aaid-implant.org/search/) - [![](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/hubfs/AAID_March2018%20Theme/images/spain.png)](https://aaid-implant-design.idevdesign.net/Spanish/) - [![](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/hubfs/AAID_March2018%20Theme/images/japan.png)](https://aaid-implant-design.idevdesign.net/Japanese/) - [![](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/hubfs/AAID_March2018%20Theme/images/skorea.png)](https://aaid-implant-design.idevdesign.net/Korean/) ### [Dental-Wise: FAQs](https://www.aaid-implant.org/faqs/) [Ask a Dental Implant Expert](https://www.aaid-implant.org/faqs/) [Read More](https://www.aaid-implant.org/faqs/) [LifeSmiles ![News](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/hubfs/AAID_March2018%20Theme/images/Story_LifeSmiles-3_300x300.jpg)](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/) [Read More](https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/) ### American Academy of Implant Dentistry [www.aaid.com](http://www.aaid.com) 300 S. 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