Dental implants are a widely used restoration for missing or damaged teeth. Yet some patients don’t take advantage of this option, settling for more traditional tooth replacements. This is often because they believe the myths rather than the facts about dental implants. Learn the facts that debunk the common myths about dental implants.
Myth: Dental Implants Often Fail
Fact: Dental Implants Have a 95+% Success Rate
Dental implants are a highly predictable, long term tooth replacement option achieving a 95+% success with the dental implants properly fusing with the jaw bone and providing a solid anchor to support a dental prosthetic. Dental implant success depends on two people, your dentist and yourself. Your dentist is responsible for accurate placement of your dental implant and monitoring your progress. You are responsible for following your dentist’s instructions for follow up care and oral hygiene.
Myth: Dental Implants Are Toxic
Fact: Dental Implants Are Made of Biocompatible Materials
Dental implants are made of titanium, a biocompatible material. Titanium is the same material used for other medical procedures, such as plates and rods used to repair bones as well in knee, shoulder, and hip replacement. Unless you have a titanium allergy, dental implants are a safe tooth replacement option for you.
Myth: Dental Implants Are Not Affordable
Fact: You Can Afford Dental Implants
Due to the high cost of dental implants, many patients feel they can’t afford them. However, many dental insurance plans now cover dental implants, reducing your out of pocket cost. You can also use HSA and FSA funds for dental implants. If you don’t have any insurance coverage for dental implants, the cost can be financed to divide the cost into affordable monthly payments. Options such as CareCredit are designed for medical expenses and offer promotions that include no interest and low interest.
Myth: Many People Are Not Candidates for Dental Implants
Fact: Anyone Can Be a Candidate for Dental Implants
It is true that not everyone is an ideal candidate for dental implants upon first evaluation. There are some medical conditions that can undermine the success of dental implants. However, just because you may have lost significant bone from long-term missing teeth, this may not preclude the use of implants to allow better function and esthetics. The majority of issues can be resolved successfully to allow dental implant placement. A consultation will allow for better assessment of treatment opportunities.
Myth: Dental Implants Don’t Last
Fact: Dental Implants Can Last a Lifetime
Once a dental implant fuses with the bone, the bond created can potentially last for the rest of your life. It is just as strong as a natural tooth root, providing full dental function. Success rates for dental implants can exceed 20 years.
Myth: It Takes a Long Time to Get Dental Implants
Fact: It is Possible To Replace All of Your Teeth in a Day
For patients who need full arch replacement, it may be possible to get new teeth in a single appointment. Implant supported dentures only require 4-6 dental implants placed in the jaw with a full denture attached. Many patients will qualify for this option after a through evaluation to determine the best treatment options to explore. Many times, even single teeth can also be replaced in a day.
Myth: Any Dentist Can Place Dental Implants
Fact: Periodontists Specialize in Dental Implant Placement
All licensed dentists can legally place dental implants, but periodontists are uniquely qualified for this procedure. Periodontists have years of training in the area of the support of both teeth and implants. Periodontists consider the many aspects that will affect the success of the dental implant and will aid you in maintaining the results you achieve.
Progressive Periodontics & Implant Dentistry provide the for the complete range of dental implant services from single teeth to full mouth recnstruction. Contact us today to learn more and schedule an appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Implants
Do dental implants hurt?
Dental implant placement is done with local anesthesia in most cases, which numbs the nerves in that specific area of your mouth. Sedation is available upon request if you are nervous or anxious about the procedure.
Can I smoke with dental implants?
Unfortunately smoking will risk the success of your dental implants. When you smoke it restricts the circulation in your mouth, which prevents the tissues from healing properly and the bone from fusing with the dental implant.
Call Progressive Periodontics & Implant Dentistry Today
If you need to know the truth about dental implants, Progressive Periodontics & Implant Dentistry provides you with the facts. We will schedule a consultation with Dr. Marc Gordon to discuss implant options and an evaluation to determine your individual needs.
To learn more, contact us today and schedule an appointment.