4 Myths About Dental Implants

While dental implants are today's industry-leading replacements for damaged or missing teeth, myths about them continue circulating. This misinformation may prevent people from accessing the best care for their missing teeth.

This blog will debunk four of the most popular myths about implants and share other vital information about these restorations.

Myth #1: Dental Implants Are Too Expensive

Many people with missing teeth don't consider dental implants affordable. While they represent an investment in oral health, they last longer than any other restoration. Bridges need replacement every 5 to 10 years, while an implant post can last a lifetime with proper care. The crown on top of the implant will need periodic replacement.

Myth #2: Dental Implants Are Just Cosmetic

While you may feel that you can live with a missing tooth, your oral health and the alignment of your other teeth will suffer. Missing teeth cause their neighbors to drift out of place, causing crowding of some teeth and more space between others. These shifts can disrupt your dental bite and make your teeth harder to keep clean. Crowded teeth are more likely to cause tooth decay and gum disease. Promptly replacing a missing tooth is the optimal choice to protect oral health.

Myth #3: Dental Implant Surgery Is Difficult

Many people avoid dental implants because they believe the surgery is too intimidating. The surgical procedure itself is usually comfortable with anesthesia. The recovery period can involve some normal discomfort, including jaw, gum, and teeth soreness. However, most patients report that it is not as difficult as they thought before the surgery.

Myth #4: Dentures Are Just as Good

While dentures may seem easier at first glance, fitting and installing them can be challenging. Dental implants protect the jawbone from deterioration, whereas dentures often cause the jawbone to wear down. Dentures may shift or become uncomfortable when you eat certain foods.

Could I Be a Candidate for Dental Implants?

Healthy Gums

If you have gum disease, you must control it before getting implants. Your dentist will advise you on what needs to happen to proceed with the implant process.

Sufficient Jawbone Mass to Support Implants

Missing teeth cause the jawbone to break down and reabsorb into the gums. If your teeth were lost or extracted years ago, it might be possible to get implants if you undergo a bone graft procedure to bulk up the jawbone.

Healthy Enough For Surgery

To get implants, you must be healthy enough to undergo oral surgery. Talk to your primary care doctor and specialists to determine your eligibility.

Willingness to Quit Smoking

Tobacco use restricts blood flow to the gums, meaning that dental implants can fail. If you want implants, you will need to commit to going tobacco-free.

Call Greer Dental Studio

You can overcome the problems caused by missing teeth. If you want to know how dental implants can improve your life, call our office at 864-259-2590. We can make an appointment for a consultation and show you how implants can transform your smile.