Did you know that your teeth can provide information about your whole-body health? This insight has allowed scientists to discover much about early human health history. A study published in the journal Current Anthropology describes how scientists have discovered a way to examine ancient human teeth for signs of vitamin D deficiency. It's fascinating look back into the past, as these studies have provided surprising information.

You might’ve heard or seen some TV commercials promising viewers new teeth in one day. 

Is it too good to be true?

The good news is that it's not a myth. But the reality is that there is a lot of planning, as well as several visits, that go into preparing for that special “day.”

“Patients researching their options to restore their smile with dental implants need to understand some important concepts so that they can make well-educated decisions regarding comfort, function, and esthetics based on their treatment objectives,” says Dr. Adam Kimowitz of Denville, New Jersey. 

If you’ve lost a tooth (or several), you’ve got more options than a fixed bridge or removable dentures. 

Dental implants are the most popular, effective alternative for people who suffer from: 

• Missing teeth
• Deteriorating teeth
• Long-term dental issues
• Congenitally missing teeth
• Traumatic injury to natural teeth

Known as the new standard for tooth replacement, dental implants fit and feel like natural teeth. A dental implant is an artificial tooth “root” surgically placed in your mouth to support a crown, denture, or bridge. Made from titanium metal, it fuses around the jawbone, serving as a root for the missing tooth. 

Here are a few things to keep in mind, if you’re considering dental implants.