4 Myths About Dental Implants
Dental implants have been around for decades with many patients having great success with them.
Unfortunately, with so much information on the internet, those who are trying to find out more about them often end up misinformed — enough to sway them from taking advantage of these incredible tooth replacements.
So, to help you make the best decision for your oral health, we thought we would debunk 4 common myths about dental implants.
Myth #1: Getting Dental Implants is a Long, Painful Process
Dental implants do take a while to fully complete treatment — at least 5 months, but it can take over a year depending on the patient’s needs. For instance, if there is not sufficient bone density, a procedure known as bone grafting will be needed to create a bone that will securely hold the implant.
If no additional treatments are needed, most dental implants can typically be completed within a few months.
As for pain, local anesthesia is used to keep patients from feeling any pain. Some pressure may be felt and maybe even a little discomfort, but getting dental implants should not be a painful procedure.
Sedation is always available, as well, if you are having reservations and need a little extra comfort.
After the procedure, the local anesthesia will wear off and you may experience some minor pain and discomfort. This should last only a couple of days and can be effectively managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.
Myth #2: Dental Implants are Dangerous
Have there been horror stories when it comes to dental implants? Perhaps. But you should know that dental implants have a 90-95% success rate long term. Many, many patients undergo this procedure every day without issue.
For those who do suffer failed dental implants, it is often due to one of many factors, including:
- Poorly placed implants
- Smoking
- Infection
- Lack of bone density
Myth #3: Dental Implants Look Fake
Dental implants function much like a real tooth and they look very natural, too. When an experienced dentist handles your dental implants, you can feel confident that they will blend beautifully with the rest of your teeth — in color, size, contour, and shape.
Unless you tell someone you have a dental implant, no one will know.
Myth #4: Dental Implants are Too Expensive
There is a lot involved when it comes to getting dental implants, including many trips to the dentist, imaging, impressions, and the procedure itself. So it should not come as a surprise that dental implants are quite costly. They can still be very affordable.
Do not dismiss the procedure due to cost without checking all of your options first.
Unlike years ago, many dental insurance companies today will cover a percentage of the cost of dental implants. If you have dental insurance it is a good idea to check your coverage.
What’s more, there are also financing options available to help you make monthly payments on dental implants so that they are more accessible.
Your dentist’s office staff will help you go over your options so that you may be able to take advantage of these incredible tooth replacements.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if you don’t replace a missing tooth?
Your teeth rely on those around them. When a tooth is missing, so is the support it provides. This means teeth can shift over time, leading to crooked teeth, overcrowding, increased risk of decay, and more.
How long do dental implants last?
Dental implants are designed to be a long-term tooth replacement. While the dental crown may need to be replaced every 10 to 15 years or so, the implant itself is meant to last for decades — or a lifetime.
Learn More About Dental Implants
To get the most success out of your dental implants, you want to work with an experienced dental team — one that you will find at El Paso Family Dental. We have the expertise and technology to place dental implants with precision.
Contact us today at 915-585-2020 to learn more! Or, schedule your visit online.