Dr. Beckwith Authors Dental Implant Article for AAID Blog

Dr. John Beckwith recently authored an article in the American Academy of Implant Dentistry’s LifeSmiles blog, titled “A Guide to Navigating Your Dental Implant Journey.” In the post, he provides an overview of the dental implant procedure, including information about candidacy, alternatives, and longevity. 

To begin the informative article, Dr. Beckwith emphasizes that dental implants are a long-term investment in oral health. He says patients should work closely with their dentist to create a tailored treatment plan, considering factors like the number of teeth needing replacement and the patient’s medical history.

In the article, Dr. Beckwith highlights implants as a superior option for single tooth replacement; unlike bridges, he says implants do not affect adjacent teeth. For multiple teeth, he says the location may determine whether implants are the best solution. Factors like decay, prognosis, and the need for additional root canal therapy or crowns should also be considered.

When it comes to a patient’s candidacy, Dr. Beckwith asserts that their medical history and any possible issues that can affect healing—like immune deficiencies, smoking habits, past radiation treatment, and bone density—are all essential information. For those who are deemed good candidates, the success rate of implants is high, with a potential lifespan of 25 to 30 years, if not longer. To ensure long-lasting results, Dr. Beckwith explains that practicing good oral hygiene is vital.

The article underscores the importance of patient education and the dentist’s role in guiding the best oral health decisions. With these in mind, Dr. Beckwith says patients can achieve long-term success with dental implants, making them a preferred choice for many seeking permanent solutions for missing teeth.