Dental Implants: Myths vs. Facts

While dental implants are one of today's best options for tooth replacement, many people have misconceptions about them. These misconceptions circulate in the community and become exaggerated over time. Patients need accurate information about dental implants to make treatment decisions grounded in fact. 

Countering the Myths About Dental Implants

Myth #1: Others Will Notice Dental Implants

Fact: Many patients believe that the metal base of a dental implant will show when they smile. They may think of a porcelain-over-metal crown with a small amount of metal at the base. Today's dental implants are almost undetectable in a patient's smile. Most people will not notice them unless the patient tells them they have a new implant.

Myth #2: Older People Can't Get Dental Implants

Fact: Older individuals can receive dental implants if they are healthy enough for surgery and do not have certain medical conditions like uncontrolled diabetes and bleeding disorders. Patients with healthy gums and sufficient bone mass are generally good candidates.

Myth #3: Dental Implants Are High-Maintenance

Fact: This myth is one of the most far-fetched. Dental implants require no more care than healthy natural teeth. Patients should brush or floss as recommended and make regular dental visits.

Myth #4: Dental Implant Surgery is Painful

Today's implant surgery procedures are comfortable, thanks to advances in local anesthesia. Patients anxious about the procedure can opt for sedation or general anesthesia.

Myth #5: Dental Implants Commonly Fail

Fact: Dental implant failure is rare. According to medical studies, 90 to 95 percent of dental implants succeed. Failure may occur when placing an implant in an area with insufficient bone or when the patient does not take good care of the implant.

Myth #6: Dental Implants Are Expensive

Fact: Dental implants should be considered an investment in a patient's oral health. They last much longer than bridges and conventional partial dentures, which are prone to breakage and may be uncomfortable to wear.

Myth #7: Patients Can't Eat Their Favorite Foods With Implants

Fact: This myth arose from the fact that patients must eat a soft diet during the initial healing process. Once the implant site heals, patients can eat almost anything, even crunchy and chewy foods.

Myth #8: Dental Implants Make People Sick

Fact: False information has spread about the titanium in dental implants giving patients severe headaches. If patients experience headaches after receiving implants, a surgical complication may be at fault.

Myth #9: It Takes Years to Get Dental Implants

Fact: Some patients need bone graft surgery and time for the grafts to heal before dental implant placement, making the process longer. However, most patients can receive implants in a few months from start to finish.

Myth #10: Implants Are Uncomfortable

Fact: Once implants have healed, patients report feeling like they have natural teeth. They do not have the same level of sensitivity as natural teeth since they do not contain nerve tissue.

Myth #11: Patients Can't Receive Implants if Their Tooth Has Been Missing for Years

Fact: Missing teeth cause the jawbone to break down around the socket due to insufficient chewing stimulation. However, patients can regain enough bone mass to place an implant by undergoing a bone graft procedure. Bone grafting places a ground bone medium inside the jawbone, allowing it to grow and create new bone tissue.

Myth #12: Implants Only Last for Ten Years

Fact: A dental implant post generally lasts at least 15 years but can last a lifetime with proper care. The crown on top may need occasional replacement due to normal wear and tear.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Implants

How do dental implants work?

Dental implants replace both the crown and root of a damaged or missing tooth. The oral surgeon places a titanium anchor in the jaw and allows it to heal. The anchor receives a stainless steel abutment or cap and a lifelike dental crown.

Are dental implants safe?

Dental implants contain safe, biocompatible materials. They succeed in up to 95 percent of installations. They do not cause discomfort or patient illness.

Call Braasch OMS

Knowing the facts about dental implants can help you make an educated decision. If you have questions about these myths or any aspect of receiving dental implants, please call our Bedford, NH, office at 603-657-1984.