Introduction
When it comes to tooth replacement the dental implant procedure has more than proved its success. It is a medical device that is surgically implanted into your jaw so that you can once again enjoy the full functionality of your teeth while also restoring your appearance. They look and feel just like real teeth. Dental implants have an average lifespan of about 10 to 30 years which no other replacement treatment can claim.
Despite these positives, there are still so many negative myths about dental implants which have no grounds, but which yet persist. Hopefully reading this article will help lay to rest some of the common misconceptions regarding dental implants, so that more people will be encouraged to experience the many benefits of implant treatment.
1. “Dental Implants are painful”
One of the main common misconceptions is that dental implants are painful which is simply not true. After an implant surgery and the new teeth have been attached to the implants, they no longer rest on your gums, which makes them less painful than traditional dentures, which actually have a longer duration of discomfort.
Also, the discomfort is only at the surgical site, which will be swollen or sore for about a week, for which you will be prescribed over-the-counter pain medication. Also, while there is drilling involved to place the implant, remember your jawbone has no nerves, so there is no actual pain, just some discomfort caused by the pressure. You are also given a local anaesthesia which makes the entire dental implants surgery pain free.
2. “Dental implants are not long lasting”
Misconceptions about dental implants also include the wrong impression that they are not long lasting. Dental implants are recognised as one of the best solutions for replacing missing teeth with a lifespan of over 20 years when properly maintained. Most are made with titanium which is highly resistant to fracture and has a high biocompatibility which means it works well within the human body and so can last a long time. The technology surrounding dental implants is constantly evolving with extensive testing so that dental implants boast a very high success rate.
It is important that you get your implants done by an experienced dentist because skill plays an important role in the longevity of the implants. Zirconia dental implants are also an option for anyone hesitant about titanium.
3. “Dental implants look unnatural”
With today’s innovations and options for tooth coloured materials there is no possibility of dental implants looking unnatural. The actual titanium implant is embedded in your jaw and once it has fused or integrated then the crown is placed. It is this crown section that is visible, and it is custom made to match your natural teeth perfectly. Dental implants look more natural than dentures because they are designed to look exactly like your own teeth making it near impossible to tell the difference.
4. “Dental Implants require a lot of maintenance”
Dental implants require a lot of maintenance is another one of those unfortunately common myths because in actuality they do not require extensive maintenance. All they need is for you to take care of them as you would your natural teeth and to look after your oral hygiene and health. Brushing your teeth twice a day or if possible after every meal and regular flossing are all that you need to do. Regular dental appointments will further help keep everything in top condition.
5. “Dental implants limit your diet”
With dental implants you are able to enjoy your regular eating habits, eating virtually anything, including hard and tough foods, done mindfully as you would take care even with your real teeth. For about 24 to 48 hours after surgery you will have to consume solid but soft food and take it easy for about a week. Thereafter, depending on how quickly you heal you can return to your regular diet. Dental implants do not limit your diet but instead allow you to enjoy all the food you may not have been able to because of missing teeth.
6. “Dental implants are costly”
Your initial investment towards the dental implants is significantly higher than with some of the other options, but when you look at the lifespan of implants that can last a lifetime, it turns out to be a very cost effective choice. They provide you with a permanent solution to tooth loss which could otherwise have serious oral and dental consequences.
7. “Dental Implants is a risky procedure”
Dental implants have been used for years to successfully treat the restoration of teeth with an almost 100% success rate with it being quite rare for a dental implant to fail. Qualified and experienced dental surgeons regularly perform successful dental implants to restore people’s smiles. It is not a risky procedure and is instead the perfect solution to regaining dental health, functionality, durability and the aesthetics of your teeth and smile.
Conclusion
Basically, there is no foundation to the common misconceptions surrounding dental implants. Instead of something to be concerned about, they are in fact the most successful long term solution for missing teeth. The loss of teeth not only affects the aesthetics of your smile but can also affect your jaw bone and gum health. Unlike dentures, implants do not add pressure to your gums, and once implanted and healed you will not even feel it.
Hopefully the myths surrounding dental implants can be laid to rest so that more people can enjoy the benefits of dental implants without fear and enjoy their smiles with confidence while experiencing a better quality of life with a fully functional set of teeth.
