4 Myths About Dental Implants

Dental implants are the field's leading replacement for damaged or missing teeth. They can rejuvenate your smile, boosting your appearance, self-esteem, and oral health.

If you search online for dental implants, you may encounter misleading information. In this blog, we will correct this information and provide the facts you need to decide between dental implants and another type of restoration.

Myth #1: Implant Surgery is Uncomfortable

Implant surgery has a reputation for being painful. However, the surgery usually involves local anesthesia and perhaps a sedative, either laughing gas (nitrous oxide) or deeper sedation. While you will experience some soreness, tenderness, and swelling after your surgery, if you follow our post-operative instructions, you should have an easier recovery.

Myth #2: Implants Look Fake

Some people may believe that implants will look unnatural, like dentures. However, they are much more attractive than conventional dentures and will improve your appearance.

The materials used today provide an excellent replacement for your natural teeth. The translucent quality of today's dental ceramics mimics natural teeth very closely. Today's implant restorations are beautiful and functional tooth restorations.

Myth #3: Implants Are Only For Young People

Dentists do not reserve implants for their younger patients. Adults of any age can benefit from dental implants. As long as you have sufficient gum, bone, and overall health, you can receive implants successfully.

Myth #4: Implants Often Fail

This myth is one of the most inaccurate examples in circulation. Implant failure is exceedingly low, between 3 and 5 percent. Implants seldom fall out, and they can't be lost, unlike dentures. The implant post itself can last a lifetime when given proper care.

Advantages of Dental Implants

• Attractive
• Long-Lasting
• Preserve Tooth Alignment
• Preserve Jawbone Health
• Keep Facial Appearance Youthful

Good Candidates for Dental Implants

While dental implants are valuable for many patients, not everyone can receive them. To be a good candidate for dental implants, you should have the following:

• Healthy gums: The gums must be robust and able to recover from implant surgery. If you have existing gum disease, your dentist must address it before implant surgery.
• Sufficient jawbone mass: Dental implants need enough jawbone to anchor securely. If you do not have enough jawbone mass already, you may be able to receive a dental bone graft to help.
• Healthy Enough for Surgery: People with certain chronic health conditions may not be eligible for a surgical procedure. Consult with your dentist and primary care doctor.
• Non-Smoker or Willing to Quit Permanently: Smoking slows healing and impairs blood flow to the gums. If you want dental implants, you must commit to going tobacco-free.

Call Leland Dental

When you debunk the myths about dental implants, you may realize they are a great choice to improve your appearance and oral health. If you want to explore your implant options, call us at 781-826-8395 for a consultation with Dr. Leland.