7 Common Myths About Dental Implants Debunked (Image credit: iStock)
Are you thinking about getting dental implants but are unsure because of what you’ve heard? Don’t worry, you’re not alone! There are many misconceptions about dental implants and it’s time to clear things up. An implant is a screw-shaped piece of titanium metal that a dental surgeon places into your jawbone. This screw can support one or more crowns (false teeth) for a fixed, “natural-looking” smile. Titanium is an element because of its 100% biocompatible property, which simply means that the body accepts this material as its own. But are dental implants painful? Will they burn a hole in your pocket? We have answers to all your questions!
We caught up with Dr. Shubhankar Mehrotra, resident dentist and owner of multidisciplinary dental clinic Orcadent in Gurugram, who debunks seven common myths and gives you real facts so you can feel confident about your smile.
Myth 1: Dental implants are extremely painful.
Fact: Many people assume that having dental implants placed will be a painful experience, but that’s not true. Modern dentistry uses advanced techniques to make the procedure as comfortable as possible. Dentists administer local anesthesia to completely numb the area, ensuring that you don’t feel any discomfort during the surgery. Some patients even opt for sedation for an even more relaxing experience. After the procedure, pain is usually mild and can be easily managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. In fact, many patients report that recovery from dental implant surgery is similar to having a tooth pulled.
Myth 2: Dental implants do not look natural.
Fact: Some people fear that dental implants will be obvious or look fake, but in reality, implants are designed to blend in perfectly with your natural teeth. The crown, which is the visible part of the implant, is custom-made to match the color, size, and shape of the surrounding teeth. Dentists take special care in the design process to ensure that the implant looks completely natural. If done correctly, no one will be able to tell which tooth is the implant—not even you!
Myth 3: Implants are only for older people.
Fact: Dental implants aren’t just for seniors. While older adults often need them due to age-related tooth loss, people of all ages can benefit from implants. As long as your jawbone is fully developed (which usually happens by late adolescence or early adulthood), you may be a candidate for dental implants. Adults of all ages get implants to replace missing teeth due to injury, tooth decay, or other issues, and it’s a great solution for anyone who wants a long-lasting, natural-looking replacement.
Myth 4: Dental implants are too expensive.
Fact: At first glance, dental implants may seem more expensive than other tooth replacement options, but they are actually cost effective in the long run. Alternatives like dentures or bridges often require frequent repairs or replacements over time, while dental implants are designed to last a lifetime with proper care. When you consider the durability and reduced need for future dental work, implants are a smart investment for both your health and your family. Oral health and quality of life. Additionally, many dentists offer payment plans to make the initial cost more manageable.
Myth 5: The procedure is too risky.
Fact: Dental implant procedures are one of the safest and most reliable treatments in dentistry, with a success rate of around 95 percent. When performed by a trained and experienced dentist or oral surgeon, the risks are minimal. Complications such as infections or implant failure are rare and can often be avoided with proper care and attention. Your dentist will thoroughly evaluate your oral health and medical history to ensure you are a good candidate, further reducing the risks involved.
Myth 6: You will have to avoid certain foods with implants.
Fact: One of the biggest benefits of dental implants is that once they’ve healed, you can eat all the foods you love. Immediately after the procedure, you’ll need to limit yourself to soft foods while the implant integrates with the bone, but once it’s fully healed, you can return to your normal diet. Dental implants are securely anchored in your jawbone, just like natural teeth, so you won’t have to worry about them slipping or becoming loose. Whether it’s crunchy apples or chewy steaks, you can enjoy your favorite foods without restrictions.
Myth 7: Implants require special maintenance.
Fact: Dental implants require surprisingly little maintenance. Unlike dentures, which may require special cleaning solutions and adhesives, implants don’t need any special treatment. Simply care for them as you would your natural teeth: regular brushing, flossing, and routine dental checkups are all it takes to keep them in good shape. Implants don’t decay, and with proper care, oral hygieneThey can last a lifetime. Regular visits to the dentist are still important to monitor the health of the gums and surrounding bone, but no additional care beyond the usual routine is required.
Disclaimer
The information contained in this post is for general information purposes only. We make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to the website or the information, products, services, or related graphics contained on the post for any purpose.
We respect the intellectual property rights of content creators. If you are the owner of any material featured on our website and have concerns about its use, please contact us. We are committed to addressing any copyright issues promptly and will remove any material within 2 days of receiving a request from the rightful owner.