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There are a few myths swirling around the concept of dental implants, and sometimes we find that patients are hesitant to get implants because they have heard some of the myths. To help you make well informed decisions about your oral health, we’ve put together a list of some of the most pervasive myths and the truth behind them.
Myth #1: Dental Implants Are Expensive
Truth: Dental implants tend to be more expensive than dentures, but the cost can vary depending on the oral surgeon you choose and the number of implants you need. However, dental implants are an investment into your oral health and your appearance. They last longer than dentures and with the right care, the implant can last for nearly a lifetime.
Myth #2: Getting Implants Is Painful
Truth: The dental implant process is quite involved. The oral surgeon places the root of the implant into your jaw bone and stitches your gum tissue closed around the root. After the prosthetic root has ossified to the bone, the oral surgeon opens up the tissue and places a crown on the root to complete the implant.
Like many dental procedures, this is not something that you want to do without pain relief, but with a topical anesthesia and some oral sedation or intravenous anesthesia, you do not feel a thing. Your dentist can also help you advise you on how to stay comfortable during the healing process.
Myth #3: Dental Implants Cause You to Miss a Lot of Work
Truth: Dental implants are an outpatient procedure. If you get a number of implants or if you have a lot of sensitivity, you may want to stay home for two or three days to recuperate. It’s similar to the recovery time you need when getting wisdom teeth extracted. But if you just get a single implant, you may even feel comfortable returning to work that day.
Similarly, you can also expect to be able to handle your duties around the home in a similar timeline. In other words, you may feel comfortable jumping right back in, but to be on the safe side, you may want to plan a few meals and get someone to help with small children for a few days after the procedure.
Myth #4: Your Problem Isn’t Serious Enough to Need Dental Implants
Truth: If you are missing one or more teeth, your situation is severe enough to need dental implants. This solution can work as an alternative to bridges or other prosthetics.
Myth #5: Your Issue Is Just Cosmetic So You Don’t Need Dental Implants
Truth: In the world of dentistry, most problems are not just cosmetic. Many people think that if they are just missing a tooth but the gap isn’t noticeable, then they don’t need implants. The reality, however, is that any time you are missing a tooth, your jaw bone may start to deteriorate in that area, your other teeth may begin to shift, and other problems may develop. By turning to dental implants, you stave off these issues.
At Greater Atlanta Oral Facial Surgery, we offer dental implants and other procedures. Set up an appointment by calling us today, or contact us online with questions.