Dental implants, although revered by dentists and patients alike as the gold standard in restorative treatments for missing teeth, aren’t immune from disinformation campaigns. Myths about dental implants range from falsehoods such as dental implants being painful, to dental implants costing too much. Other myths dispute the quality of implant restorations and question the safety of dental implants. Although you may have heard some of the following 4 myths about dental implants, after reading this, you’ll see why these myths deserve to be debunked.
Dental Implant Myth #1: Dental Implants are Painful
This is a particularly pervasive myth, and nothing could be further from the truth. During dental implant surgery, your mouth will be completely anesthetized. You will not experience pain during the procedure. After your surgery, you should expect some tenderness, just as you would with any other surgery. The tenderness will resolve as you heal from your surgery.
Dental Implant Myth #2: Dental Implants are Dangerous
This is patently false. The innovations in dental implant surgery technology only continue to progress. Today, dentists who provide dental implants utilize state-of-the-art software, known as Guided-Implant-Placement to ensure that the implants are properly placed to ensure a successful outcome.
Dental Implant Myth #3: Bridges and Dentures are Just as Good as Dental Implants
This is demonstrably false. Dental implants are the only dental restoration that replaces not only the visible part of the tooth but also replaces the tooth root. The tooth root is crucial to a healthy, strong jaw. Without a tooth root, (which the implanted posts or screws mimic), you will continuously lose jawbone density and height. This can begin to alter the appearance of your face, creating a sunken, prematurely aged appearance.
Moreover, dentures and dental bridges will need to be replaced periodically. By contrast, dental implants will last at least 25 years. Many people find they last a lifetime with good oral hygiene and regular dental appointments.
Dental Implant Myth #4: Dental Implants are Too Expensive
Dental implants are indeed more expensive than other restorations to replace missing teeth. However, over your life, the one-time cost of a dental implant is likely to be more cost-effective than repeatedly replacing a dental bridge or dentures. Dental implants also help improve oral health, which can help to save you costs on cavities, gum disease, or further tooth loss.
Benefits of Dental Implants
None of the dental implant myths mention the dozens of benefits that these restorations offer. Some of these benefits include:
- Improved self-esteem from having a complete smile
- Ability to bite into your favorite foods
- Resolution of speech problems due to missing teeth
- Cavity-resistant crowns
- Ease of chewing
- Improved oral health
- Natural looking smile
- Maintained facial appearance
- Durable restorations that don’t require special tools to clear
- No need for adhesives
- No risk of slippage of dentures
- Easy to maintain with regular brushing and flossing
- Prevents jawbone loss
- May help promote new growth of the jawbone
- Improved quality of life
- Stabilizes nearby teeth
- Reduces risks of further tooth loss
- Match your other teeth in shape, size, and color
- Permanent solution for missing teeth
If you’re tired of living with missing teeth, it’s time to talk with an experienced dentist about the type of dental implants that may be best suited for you. Dental implants are available to replace a single missing tooth, multiple missing teeth, and entire arches of teeth.
Fine Dental Care offers general, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry to patients in Wayne, NJ. They are committed to providing their patience with a comforting dental experience.