Dental implants are the gold standard for missing teeth or teeth replacements. They are titanium or zirconium screws/posts that a restorative dentist surgically placed into the jawbone beneath the gums of lost teeth. Once they are secure in their position, the restorative dentist mounts prosthetic teeth onto them.

Dental implants are the most popular, effective way to restore the entire missing tooth/teeth structure. They are the unparalleled long-term option for smile restoration. But, there persists many misconceptions and myths about dental implants. These myths make many eligible candidates feel uncertain about getting dental implants. In this blog, we debunk 10 myths about dental implants and even provide more details about implants. Keep reading to know myths and facts about dental implants and how reliable are dental implants!

Myth vs. Reality: What You Need to Know

Myth #1: Getting Dental Implants is Painful and Risky

Fact: The restorative dentist performs dental implant surgery under local anesthesia or sometimes intravenous sedation. Thus, the overall implant procedure is comfortable. But, dental implant surgery also comes with some degree of pain and discomfort afterward. The pain or any discomfort is temporary.

However, with modern tools and techniques used in implant surgery, the pain is tolerable. Also, the recovery is short and manageable. The restorative dentist prescribes pain medications to get relief from any post-surgery discomfort.

Furthermore, dental implant surgery involves minimal risk. The overall success rate of getting dental implants is 95 to 98%. Rarely, an implant can fall out or fail.

Myth #2: Dental Implants Are Expensive

Fact: Dental implants have a high upfront cost but they are more affordable than other alternatives like bridges or dentures. They can last a lifetime with proper care. Thus, they are worthwhile investments for long-term oral health and an appealing smile.

Myth #3: Dental Implants Take Too Long to Heal

Fact: Traditionally, the dental implant process was very lengthy. That is because it involved multiple procedures with long months of healing in between. Now, there are same day implants available which cuts short the overall treatment length and healing period.

Furthermore, it takes months for implants to fuse with the jawbone. But, the results are permanent and so implants are a worthy option.

Myth #4: Dental Implants Are Not for Everyone

Fact: Dental implants are best suited for anyone aged 18 and above. Age is not a determining factor for someone’s candidacy. Thus, any adult can enjoy the benefits of implants.

Myth #5: Dental Implants Look Fake

Fact: Dental implants have the closest resemblance to natural teeth. They appear, feel, and function just like real teeth when installed by an expert.

Myth #6: Dental Implants Require Special Care

Fact: Dental implants require the same care and maintenance as provided to natural teeth. They should be regularly brushed and flossed to avoid getting decayed or damaged. Moreover, dental professionals must check out the condition of the implant in regular dental visits.

Myth #7: Dental Implants Can Cause Sinus Problems

Fact: It is very rare to have sinus issues resulting from dental implants. Still, in tiny minuscule cases, dental implants can impinge sinus cavities and cause sinus infections/problems. That happens only when the dentist does not properly place the implants.

Myth #8: Dental Implants Can Set Off Metal Detectors

Fact: This is one of the popular myths about dental implants. Metal detectors only set off metals that lie close to them and create an electromagnetic field. Dental implants are primarily composed of titanium- a non-magnetic metal. Therefore, they cannot trigger metal detectors.

Myth #9: Dental Implants Are Not Covered by Insurance

Fact: Many insurance companies indeed consider dental implants as a cosmetic treatment. Dental or health insurance does not cover the cost of cosmetic procedures. However, there are cases where patients can receive partially insurance-covered dental implants. Some insurance companies do claim some portions of the implant process. If patients require dental implants in a medical emergency, insurance can help make them affordable.

Myth #10: Dental Implants Are a New and Unproven Technology

Fact: Dental implants have long been used to restore missing teeth. They are innovative, proven technology that can help regain an aesthetic smile after tooth loss.

Understanding the Benefits of Dental Implants

Dental implants stand above other missing tooth/teeth replacements. This innovative option offers the following benefits:

• Preserves Jawbone- Dental implants provide the necessary stimulation to the jawbone to help it naturally grow. They prevent jawbone deterioration following tooth loss and subsequent changes in facial shape.
• Mimics Natural Teeth- Dental implants are available in a variety of shapes and sizes. The dentist designs implants to blend with real teeth and even feel and function like real teeth.
• No Embarrassing Slippage- Dentures can visibly shift or slip while talking, laughing, or eating, making patients feel self-conscious. Dental implants are strongly anchored to the jawbone and cannot cause such embarrassment.
• Highly Durable- Dental implants can last for the rest of the patient’s life. They do not require periodic repair or replacements.
• Improves Oral Health- Dental implants can’t decay. There is no need for special care for dental implants. The patients just need to brush and floss them like natural teeth to prevent bacteria build-up and subsequent oral infections.
• Supports Nearby Teeth- Dental implants fill in the gaps created in a smile by missing teeth. They help prevent the shifting of adjacent teeth into spaces. Furthermore, their placement does not harm the adjacent teeth, just as bridges do.

Who is a Candidate for Dental Implants?

Good candidates for dental implants are adults who have:

• Good overall health
• Healthy gums
• Enough healthy jawbone mass to support the implants
• Commitment to good oral hygiene practices and regular dental visits
• Realistic expectations from the treatment.

Dental implants are not meant for heavy smokers and patients with uncontrolled diabetes or heart disease. Also, they are not for people who have undergone radiation therapy in the head/neck area.

How Dental Implants Can Improve Your Quality of Life

Dental implants can help restore teeth for a lifetime. Once healing is over, the patients with implants can eat without limitations, speak clearly, and smile or laugh with confidence.

Success Rates of Dental Implants

Dental implants are far superior to conventional bridges or dentures. One of the main reasons is that they are highly successful and predictable if properly cared for. In general, their success rates are over 95%. But, success rates do vary for different patients. The success depends upon the location where the dentist installs the implant.

If you have any other myths about dental implants and want to clear your doubts. Do visit the best dental implant clinic in Chicago, EON Clinics today!