Debunking the Five Most Common Myths About Dental Implants

Dental implants are typically regarded as the "gold standard" for replacing missing teeth. They provide a stable and visually appealing base for bridges, dentures, and crowns. This very painless technique also allows patients to restore the appearance and function of their smile while avoiding issues such as facial drooping and premature aging.

While the advantages of dental implants cannot be emphasized, there are some misconceptions about this common dental operation. Here are some of the most frequent fallacies concerning dental implants and the truth behind them.

1. Getting Dental Implants is Painful

It is typical to have concerns about the dental implant procedure, including whether it would be uncomfortable. The truth is that having a dental implant is comparable to other dental procedures. You may feel some pressure during the process, but you should not be in pain because of the anesthesia used before treatment.

After the operation, your mouth may feel slightly uncomfortable or irritated. However, this moderate discomfort should begin to subside in the days following surgery. If you follow the post-care instructions provided by your dentist, any pain you have after surgery should be minimal.

2. Dental Implants are Expensive

Many individuals overestimate the price. While dental implants are normally more expensive than other options, such as removable dentures, they are more affordable than you may realize. Furthermore, they give a long-term solution to missing teeth, making them a wise investment. With proper maintenance, dental implants can last a lifetime.

There is also a misconception that insurance does not cover dental implants. With dental implants becoming the conventional therapy for tooth replacement, many insurance companies are now covering at least a portion of the cost of dental implant surgery, reducing the amount of money patients must pay out of pocket.

3. Other People Will Be Able to Tell I Have Dental Implants

It's normal to want a stunning, youthful smile. This can be difficult to accomplish with some tooth replacement solutions, like removable dentures that can shift while speaking or chewing. In contrast, dental implants appear considerably more natural. Most people will have no idea you have dental implants unless you tell them.

Dental implants are made up of a titanium tooth root and an artificial crown, bridge, or denture. This combination enables the dental implant to restore both the function and appearance of your smile.

4. Dental Implant Surgery Is Risky

Before undergoing any operation, you should be aware of the hazards involved. Every surgery, including dental implant surgeries, carries some level of risk. However, the hazards connected with this sort of treatment are quite modest, and the success rate is extremely high.

According to a study published in the Journal of the International Society of Preventive and Community Dentistry, dental implants have a 90 to 95% success rate after ten years.

5. You Can't Get Dental Implants If You Have Bone Loss

If you had an extraction years ago, you may be concerned about your ability to obtain dental implants. While you may have lost some bone density over time, this does not necessarily rule you out for dental implants in the affected location.

Your dentist can help you assess whether you are a good candidate for dental implants based on the state of your oral health and the strength of your jawbone. If your dentist discovers a lack of bone density in this area, he or she may propose a bone transplant to strengthen the jaw before doing dental implants.