If you have one or more missing teeth, then you’ve probably heard of the different options that are available for replacing a missing tooth. Because of their longevity, dental implants are currently one of the top choices in the market. However, despite being one of the most suitable and durable choices for replacing missing teeth, there are still many myths surrounding teeth implants.
At Radiant Smiles Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, our team is committed to helping you make healthier choices about your oral health. That’s why we’ve published this guide to inform you about the common myths surrounding dental implants and what you should know about getting a dental implant in Pineville, NC.
Here are the six common myths and misconceptions about dental implants:
Myth 1: The Dental Implant Procedure Is Painful
This is probably one of the common reasons why people avoid getting an implant to replace a missing tooth. However, the fear people have over feeling immense pain during a dental implant procedure is unfounded. Most dental implant surgeries are completed with a numbing medication, such as local anesthesia.
At our dental office, we use nitrous oxide–also known as deep sedation–to minimize pain during an implant procedure. We also use nitrous oxide for other dental services if it is requested by the patient.
Contrary to popular opinion, implant surgery isn’t risky, and it has an average success rate of 95% to 98%. That being said, because of our methods, the procedure is not painful and recovery is not difficult.
Myth 2: Implants Don’t Look Like Natural Teeth
One of the biggest concerns we hear about dental implants is that they don’t look like natural teeth. Some patients also assume that they also won’t feel like natural teeth. While other teeth replacement options like dentures may look a bit more bulky and noticeable, dental implants look and feel more like natural teeth.
A typical dental implant procedure involves the insertion of a titanium-based implant post into a carefully drilled borehole in the jawbone. This is followed by attaching the abutment to serve as a connector for the implant post. That way, the dental restoration–which is designed to look and feel like your natural teeth–has something to connect to. The dental restoration can either be a dental crown or a bridge.
Dental implants are designed to blend in with your surrounding teeth seamlessly. In fact, it’s hard to tell them apart from your surrounding natural teeth when you’re smiling or talking.
Myth 3: Teeth Implants Are Difficult To Maintain
Many people avoid dental implants because they think they’re difficult to maintain. Some patients also believe that dental implants may make it difficult for them to eat or talk comfortably. However, in reality, dental implants do not require any special care.
You only have to stay committed to your regular oral hygiene routine to enjoy your implants for many years. If you have any questions about how to care for your implants to keep them clean, we will be happy to provide you with care recommendations for your teeth implants.
Myth 4: Teeth Implants Are Only Suitable for Young People
Age doesn’t actually play a huge role when it comes to restoring missing teeth with dental implants, even though some people may think it does. The commonly held belief that only senior citizens need dental implants later in life is simply not true.
Regardless of your age, as long as you have enough bone tissue, then you’re a suitable candidate for a dental implant procedure. Senior citizens can undergo a bone grafting procedure if they don’t have enough bone tissue for an implant.
Myth 5: Implants Are Not Suitable for Long-term Care
Dental implants are one of the most durable teeth replacement options out there, so the belief that implants do not last long is simply not true. As a matter of fact, dental implants can last a lifetime if properly maintained. Some tips for maintaining your dental implants include adequate brushing and flossing, regular visits to your dentist, and more.
Myth 6: The Cost of Dental Implants Isn’t Worth It
This is probably the biggest of all dental implant myths. Many people believe that dental implants are expensive and that they can’t afford them. In reality, dental implant procedures offer the best value for your money when you compare them with other teeth replacement options.
Because dental implants are the most durable of all restoration procedures, they last longer and are more convenient. For many, they are the perfect teeth replacement since they look just like natural teeth and, after the procedure is done, you can pretty much forget about them. They also function just like natural teeth and help prevent future bone loss, unlike options like dentures that do not help with bone loss prevention.
Restore Your Smile With Dental Implants In Pineville, NC
Dental implant surgery has the power to transform the look of your smile. Dental implants offer many benefits that other tooth replacement options do not offer. They are an innovative restoration option that can also help you restore your bite force, improve your speech, and prevent future bone loss.
At Radiant Smiles Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, we provide our patients with convenient dental services and high-quality care that takes their overall health into account. Schedule an appointment with us for dental implants in Pineville today!
