Although dental implants have been around for decades, they’ve been increasing in popularity in recent years. As interest grows in implants, so too have some misconceptions about the procedure. Here are some common myths we hear at our practice.
Myth: Dental implants aren’t for young people.
Fact: Dental implants are for any adult missing teeth.
You may think that dental implants are not for people in their 20s or 30s. The truth is, if you’re an adult, you’re healthy, and you have enough bone density in your jaw, you’re a candidate for dental implants. In fact, dental implants are especially suited to your needs because with proper care, you’ll never have to replace them––they’re a lifetime solution for missing teeth. There's no reason to feel self-conscious or embarrassed about needing dental implants, no matter what your age.
Myth: Getting dental implants is painful.
Fact: Getting dental implants may be uncomfortable.
Many patients are nervous about getting dental implants; it’s a surgical procedure, so it’s only natural to feel anxious. One thing we can assure you is that we will do everything we can to keep you calm and comfortable throughout your procedure. We give all of our patients anesthesia to numb the area where we’re working; we also offer sedation options if anxiety is a factor.
Patients rarely, if ever, experience pain during dental implant surgery. There may be some discomfort and feelings of pressure or pulling, but not pain. In the days after your surgery, you may experience soreness and swelling, but cold compresses and over-the-counter anti-inflammatory pain medication will do wonders to keep it in check.
Myth: Dental implants don’t look natural.
Fact: Dental implants are the most natural option to replace missing teeth.
This myth may have come about as a result of people getting cheap dental implants from inexperienced providers. That’s something you’ll never have to worry about with Rosewood Dental. We only use high quality materials to make sure your smile is beautiful and appears natural.
Dental implants are the only replacement for missing teeth that functions exactly like natural teeth, with both a root and a crown. They restore both function and appearance, allowing you to eat all your favorite foods and speak without worrying about your dentures slipping. Because they’re replacing the root of your tooth, they’re firmly anchored in place and they result in a strong bite and reduced risk of facial collapse.
Myth: Dental implants are dangerous.
Fact: Dental implants have a 98 percent success rate.
It’s easy to find horror stories about dental implants online, but those stories get traction because they’re outliers––situations like that rarely happen, especially when implants are placed by a qualified dentist. Only 2 percent of dental implants fail, and when this occurs, it’s often because the patient shouldn’t have been given dental implants in the first place. We take imaging of your jaw to ensure you have the required bone density to support implants and carefully go over your medical history to ensure there are no contraindications.
Of course, dental implants are a surgical procedure, so they carry the same risks as any other type of surgery: nerve damage, injury to the surrounding structures, and infection.
Myth: Dental implants are overpriced.
Fact: Dental implants are expensive because they are a permanent replacement for missing teeth.
Dental implants seem expensive on the surface, but with dental implants, you’re paying for several visits, one or more surgeries, and expertly crafted porcelain teeth, titanium posts, and abutments. These costs add up, particularly when insurance doesn’t cover them. We understand the sticker shock, but dental implants are a permanent replacement for missing teeth; with proper care, you’ll never have to spend another dime on them ever again.
Get More Facts About Dental Implants
Do you want to learn more about dental implants? Contact us at 301-515-2466 to make an appointment with Dr. Cooper.