In recent years, dental implants have become the gold standard of tooth replacement options. In fact, more than 500,000 people choose them every year to restore their pearly whites. But, as with many procedures, there is always misinformation that can float around about them. If you are dreaming about completing your smile with dental implants, don’t let these four myths stop you!
1. Getting Dental Implants is Painful
Many people don’t enjoy getting their teeth taken care of at the dentist. This can be especially true when it involves oral surgery. The assumption is that the procedure is very painful. However, thanks to modern dental technology and techniques, this is simply false. Your teeth and gums will be numbed with a local anesthetic during the surgery. While it would be normal to feel some pressure while your dentist is working on your mouth, you won’t feel any pain. As for after the procedure, any discomfort you may experience can easily be controlled with medication.
2. Dental Implants Are Only for “Old” People
Oftentimes, tooth loss is associated with senior citizens. But this is not the case. Research has found that more than 170 million Americans are missing at least one tooth! Luckily, you don’t have to suffer with a gapped smile. You can be eligible for dental implants by your early 20s (once your jaw is fully developed).
3. It Will Be Obvious to Others that You Have Dental Implants
No one wants to look like they have fake teeth. Many people worry that dental implants will be very obvious next to your natural teeth, but this couldn’t be further from the truth. The titanium posts are implanted under your gums, and the restoration they support will be made from highly natural-looking materials. This allows them to realistically blend in with the rest of your pearly whites. Most people won’t even be able to tell that you ever had to have your teeth replaced!
4. Dental Implants Require Special Care
Many people think that there will be a lot of work in order to care for dental implants. In reality, it’s not much different from taking care of your regular teeth. You will just need to maintain your daily oral health hygiene by brushing twice a day and flossing daily, along with visiting your dentist for checkups and cleanings every six months. Protecting dental implants is much simpler than the specialized care required by traditional restorations like dentures.
Restoring your pearly whites with dental implants can be a game-changer in your life! By being aware of the misinformation about them, you could be one step closer to a complete, beautiful, long-lasting smile.
About the Author
Dr. Teresa Knott and her team at Town Center Dental are eager to help you achieve the smile of your dreams. With over 20 years of experience, she offers a full range of dental services, including dental implants. She applies personalized care and state-of-the-art technology to get your oral health in its best condition. To schedule a consultation, contact her through her website or call (972) 530-5200.