Debunking Common Dental Implant Myths

You may have heard about dental implants if you have suffered from tooth loss. They are a form of restorative dentistry that your dentist surgically places into your jawbone. The replacement teeth get mounted onto it once the implant posts are in position.

Dental implants are the most effective way of replacing a missing tooth or teeth. They feel, perform, and look like natural teeth. However, many dental implant myths continue persisting. They prevent the most suitable candidates from replacing their missing teeth. Below are some of the most common dental implant myths debunked to help you consider whether you want to get dental implants.

• Implants Are Not Long Lasting

Dental implants can last a lifetime if you properly maintain them. Your dentist will advise you to treat them like your natural teeth by brushing twice and flossing daily. Go to Smile Center for regular dental checkups to ensure you maintain your oral and dental health. 

• People Will Know You Have Implants

Most people think that because dentures are obvious, dental implants are similar. However, implants mimic your natural teeth. Nobody will know you have them unless you tell them.

Advancement in technology has made implant crowns using a material with a translucent quality. Dental implants retain the natural form of your face, smile, and mouth. Hence, no one can ever suspect that you have anything unusual.

• You Get Dental Implants in One Day

The popularity of this myth has spread due to advertisements. Most convince people that you can get new teeth in a single dental visit through dental implants. The truth is that implants get placed in the mouth in a day.

However, the entire process can take many sessions. It involves the initial consultation, scans, X-rays, implant preparation, and follow-up appointments. The whole process helps ensure you get a good outcome and that you are an ideal candidate for dental implants.

• Implants Are Not for Old People

Age is not a determining factor when getting dental implants. The young and old alike may qualify for the process. Your restorative dentist will work on evaluating your overall health, gum tissue health, and jawbone strength. All these comprise what is essential, not the age of the patient. Anyone can benefit from dental implants.

• Dental Implant Procedures Are Dangerous

Every surgical procedure involves risk. However, the success rates of most dental implant procedures are between 95 to 98 percent. Nothing should hinder you from replacing your teeth and restoring your smile and functionality.

• Dental Implant Procedure Is Painful

The most common dental implant myth is that the surgery is painful. The placement of the implant post involves minor surgery. However, you will not suffer during the entire surgery. Dental implant procedures are minimally invasive. Your oral surgeon must numb the treatment area before they start the surgery. You may not even remember you had the surgery after a few days.

• Dental Implants Are Expensive

Most people believe implants are expensive. They resort to getting bridges. However, dental implants last for 10 to 15 years more than bridges. Hence, they are a worthwhile investment to make.

For more about common dental implant myths, visit Smile Center at our office in Delaware or Sunbury, Ohio. Call 740-417-9565 or 740-965-2451 to book an appointment today.