Dental implants are a permanent tooth replacement option that can help replace one tooth or a mouthful of teeth. Dental implants can improve your smile and provide you with a natural appearance. This unique option prevents bone loss in the jaw, and in many cases, it can even reverse this kind of loss. Dental implants replace the visible portion of a tooth, and its root. No other tooth replacement option can provide you with this advantage, and only dental implants can provide patients with a stronger bite and protection from facial collapse.
If you have a missing tooth, dental implants are a suitable solution. Despite their many benefits, however, there are several myths surrounding dental implants, and a lack of understanding may prevent you from considering this treatment. Misinformation can prevent you from having the smile you’ve always wanted, and only when you have the facts can you make the right choice regarding dental implants.
The following are the most common misconceptions about dental implants:
MYTH #1: Dental Implants Are Painful, and the Process Is Invasive
Surgery is required for dental implants, but dentists use modern technology and techniques, and getting a dental implant is now easier than ever. This procedure is considered outpatient surgery, and anesthesia is often used, for pain preventation. A dentist may use oral sedation to keep you relaxed during the procedure. While you may experience slight discomfort after surgery while your body heals around the implant, this feeling will subside in a few days, and discomfort is usually mild.
A dentist may prescribe pain medication to help manage your discomfort. Some swelling and soreness are common, but a dentist will prioritize your comfort throughout the process, and pain is rarely part of the process.
MYTH #2: Dental Implants Look and Feel Unnatural
Dental implants will never look fake, and this treatment will replicate the appearance of natural teeth and their function. Dental implants are the most natural replacement for missing teeth, heping to restore the looks, feel, and functionality of the original, natural tooth.
Dental implants are usually made of titanium, and this material will fuse with your jawbone. Once it heals, a replacement tooth will be placed on top, mirroring the strength, structure and appearance of your natural tooth. This means you can chew, and speak comfortably; you will barely notice the difference between your original, natural teeth and the dental implant.
MYTH #3: Dental Implants Require a Lot of Maintenance
Once the bone has healed completely and the replacement tooth is placed on the implant, you can brush and floss as you normally would. Dental implants require very little maintenance because they are positioned very securely, with little possibility of movement. Your teeth will not shift or become loose.
You must care for your dental implants the same way you care for your natural teeth, continuing to brush and floss as you normally would. Regular dental checkups are also necessary; if you take good care of your dental implants, they can last for a long time.
MYTH #4: Dental Implants Are Prone to Failure
Dental implant surgery has a very high success rate when performed by a qualified and reputable dentist. Dental implants are among the most successful dentistry procedures; almost every patient will enjoy long-lasting results. Your dentist will provide you with post-operative care instructions to help you heal, and following this information will further increase your chance of success.
MYTH #5: Dental Implants Are Expensive
Many patients do not inquire about dental implants because they fear it is too expensive, but the cost is not as high as most people believe. The cost of dental implants will vary depending on the number of teeth you need to replace and other factors, but its price may be lower than other cosmetic dentistry options like bridges and dentures in the long run. Remember, dental implants will last much longer than other tooth replacement options and require less maintenance. Dentists recommend looking at the big picture and long-term implications—not just the initial cost.
Conclusion
Are you interested in learning more about teeth implants? Slipacoff Dental will provide you with more information regarding this procedure, and we can discuss whether or not dental implants are the best choice for your smile. Once you have the facts, you will be able to make the right choice for your teeth replacement options.
We are proud to serve our community here in Sarnia, and you can contact us at any time to schedule a consultation!