Common Myths About Dental Implants

Dental implants are a long-lasting tooth replacement solution, with a success rate of up to 98% over 10 years or more. With proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime, making them a cost-effective option in the long run.

Aside from their longevity, dental implants are a top choice for missing teeth because they provide a durable, functional, and aesthetically pleasing tooth replacement solution that can improve a patient’s quality of life and oral health.

Despite the many benefits, there are still many stubborn rumors that are spread about dental implants. Here are the most common ones that we’ve debunked.

7 Common Myths About Dental Implants

1. Dental implants are painful: Many people fear dental implants because they think the procedure will be painful. However, dental implant surgery is generally no more painful than other dental procedures like a filling or a root canal. Local anesthesia is used to numb the area, and most patients report feeling only minor discomfort during the procedure.
2. Dental implants are expensive: While dental implants can be more expensive than other tooth replacement options, they are often the most cost-effective solution in the long run. Dentures and bridges may need to be replaced or repaired over time, while dental implants can last a lifetime with proper care.
3. Dental implants take a long time to heal: While it is true that dental implants require a healing period before they can be restored with a crown or other restoration, this healing time is generally no longer than a few months. With proper care and follow-up appointments, most patients can have their implant fully restored within six months of the initial surgery.
4. Dental implants require special care: Dental implants do require some special care, but this is generally no different than caring for your natural teeth. Regular brushing and flossing, as well as routine dental checkups, are all that is needed to keep your implant healthy and functional.
5. Dental implants can only be placed in healthy mouths: While it is true that gum disease and other oral health issues can increase the risk of implant failure, these conditions do not necessarily disqualify a patient from getting dental implants. With proper treatment and care, many patients with gum disease or other oral health problems can still be good candidates for dental implants.
6. Dental implants are not natural-looking: Today’s dental implants are designed to look and function just like natural teeth. The crown or other restoration that is placed on top of the implant is carefully crafted to match the shape, size, and color of your natural teeth, resulting in a seamless, natural-looking smile.
7. Dental implants are only for older patients: Dental implants can be a great option for anyone who is missing one or more teeth, regardless of age. In fact, many younger patients are opting for dental implants as a way to replace missing teeth and restore their smile and confidence.

Dental Implants in Germantown, MD

Dental implants are the treatment of choice for missing or failing teeth. Strong, durable, and stable dental implants replace tooth roots, halting and reversing jawbone deterioration. They also restore virtually all original bite strength, allowing you to eat foods like tough meats and sticky candy with ease.

Despite the rumors, nearly anyone can become a candidate for dental implants. If you have oral health problems such as gum disease or tooth decay, we must correct those before placing implants. Underlying medical conditions such as diabetes or high blood pressure must be tightly controlled. If you have severe jawbone loss, you might need a bone graft. Within these parameters, there is no reason to avoid dental implants.

Rosewood Dental provides dental implants and other restorative dentistry services like fillings and same day crowns to the Germantown, MD, area. Their goal is to help their patients have healthy and beautiful smiles.