Dental implants are quickly becoming one of the most common tooth replacement options in dentistry. From a single tooth replacement to a full set of implant supported dentures, dental implants are the latest and greatest technology.
So what’s keeping some patients from choosing dental implants to replace one or more teeth? In some cases it’s the myths that circulate about them that cause some patients to miss out on the most naturally looking and functioning dental prosthetics.
Here are the 4 most common myths about dental implants and the facts that debunk them.
Myth 1: Dental Implants Look Fake
One myth about dental implants is that they look fake or unnatural, when in fact, they are the most natural-looking dental prosthetic available. Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that are surgically placed in the bone of the jaw where a natural tooth root used to be. They are made of titanium that fuses with the bone to form a solid bond. An artificial tooth is attached to the implant to complete the replacement.
Since dental implants are anchored in the jaw in a similar fashion to a natural tooth, the appearance is very realistic. A dental implant looks more natural than a bridge because it exists independently of the adjacent teeth.
Implant supported dentures look more natural than traditional dentures as well, because they are held securely in place by implants rather than with suction or adhesives that often allow dentures to slip out of place.
Myth 2: The Dental Implant Procedure is Painful
The placement of dental implants is a minor surgical procedure. It can be done with just local anesthesia in many cases, or additional sedation can be used at the request of the patient. Local anesthesia numbs the tissues that are being worked on so that you don’t feel any pain. If you are nervous or anxious about the procedure, sedation can help you feel more relaxed.
Nitrous oxide is a sedative gas that you breathe through a mask worn over your nose. It provides a calm, comfortable feeling that helps you feel more relaxed. Patients describe a tingling feeling in their fingers and toes and a heaviness in their arms and legs. Nitrous oxide takes effect in just a few minutes and wears off just as quickly when you go back to breathing regular room air.
Conscious oral sedation can be prescribed in a pill or liquid form that you can take before your procedure to help you feel more relaxed. You will be awake, but you may feel sleepy or groggy. It will take effect before you arrive for your procedure and will take a few hours to wear off afterwards, so you’ll need someone to drive you to and from your appointment.
You and your dentist can find the right type of anesthesia to ensure that you have a pain-free experience.
Myth 3: Dental Implants Often Fail
While a dental implant may fail on rare occasions, dental implants have an overall success rate of 98%. Dental implant success depends on the following factors:
- Proper placement. As long as your dental implant is placed accurately by an experienced dentist and the help of advanced technology, it is highly unlikely that it would fail.
- Follow up care. Following your dentist’s instructions for follow up care at home and going to your follow up appointments will give your dental implant the highest chance of success.
Once your dental implant fully fuses with the bone in your jaw, it can last for the rest of your life.
Myth 4: Insurance Won’t Cover Dental Implants
This myth used to be true. Dental insurance did not cover dental implants in the past because the procedure was considered to be cosmetic or experimental. But with more information from dentists on the benefits of dental implants and the positive effects they have on patients’ dental and oral health, insurance providers have started to include dental implant coverage on certain plans. Contact your insurance provider to determine whether or not dental implants are covered under your current plan or consider changing to a plan that covers them.
Schedule a Dental Implant Consultation Today
If you’re interested in dental implants, schedule a consultation with the Dental Wellness Team today. We provide dental implant solutions for replacing anywhere from one to all of your teeth. We welcome any questions or concerns you may have about dental implants to help you determine whether they are right for you.
Call (954) 796-3355 or contact us today to learn more and schedule an appointment.