Dental implants are increasingly popular today as replacements for missing or damaged teeth. They both look and feel like natural teeth, and they bond with the jawbone to produce a permanent restoration.
When searching for knowledge about implants, some patients receive misleading information. These harmful myths could convince patients to settle for less effective tooth restorations.
This blog will discuss the top four myths about dental implants and provide patients with the information they need to decide.
1. Implant Surgery is Invasive and Painful
Many people are wary of dental implant surgery. They may read that the implant screws into the jaw and interpret that as a painful process. Today, dental implant surgery is much more comfortable thanks to advances in local anesthesia. You will feel pressure. After the procedure, you may feel discomfort, but your dentist will let you know how to manage it at home.
If you still feel nervous about the surgery, our office provides several sedation options for your comfort.
2. Implants Only Last Ten Years
While some claim that a dental implant lasts only ten years, it can last much longer. The crown on top of a dental implant may need replacement eventually, but the titanium implant that takes the place of the tooth's root should last a lifetime with proper maintenance.
3. Implants Take Special Care
Many people believe in error that dental implants are challenging to care for. Dental implants require the same at-home care as healthy, natural teeth:
- Brushing twice daily
- Flossing at least once daily
- Visiting the dentist twice a year
Your dentist will provide any additional care instructions, but in general, implants are far easier to care for than damaged natural teeth.
4. Implants Look Unnatural
Today's dental implants look and feel exactly like natural teeth. While it may have been possible to tell implants apart from natural teeth in the past, the distinction is difficult to see today. From a cosmetic perspective, implants are a perfect replacement.
Other Benefits of Dental Implants
Promoting Jawbone Health
Since a dental implant bonds with your jawbone, it prevents the body from reabsorbing the bone due to lack of stimulation.
Keeping Teeth from Shifting
Missing teeth cause their neighbors to shift, disturbing their arrangement and possibly causing more tooth decay and gum diseases.
Restoring Chewing and Speaking Ability
Dental implants allow you to eat anything you want without having to avoid certain teeth. Missing teeth may also cause trouble with clear speech.
Call Total Dental Care
If you want to learn more about dental implants, a qualified professional is the best source of information. Call Total Dental Care at our Germantown, MD office at 240-813-9111. We can set up a consultation with one of our experienced dentists to discuss how implants can work to rejuvenate your smile.