If you’re looking for a permanent solution to your dental woes, dental implants are an excellent choice. The dental implant industry is booming with a market size of approximately $4.5 billion in 2022. 

For those who are a bit nervous about getting this procedure, it’s important to know the facts.

We’re going to debunk some of the most common misconceptions about dental implants so you can make your appointment in confidence.

Dental Implants are Painful

One of the most widely spread myths about dental implant surgery is that the procedure is painful. However, thanks to new technology, getting an implant is fairly painless.

First, you’ll be administered anesthesia during implant surgery so you shouldn’t feel any pain or discomfort whatsoever. In some cases, you can also opt for oral sedation if you choose.

While there may be some discomfort as your gums heal around the implant, it’s usually quite mild. Overall, the main procedure to get dental implants is painless. And, it’s still one of the best ways to encourage good dental health if you need a tooth replaced.

Implants Look Fake

Another misconception about dental implants is that they look completely “fake” and unnatural. This restorative dentistry procedure involves using a special titanium material that’s directly inserted into the jawbone. This durable rod eventually fuses with the bone so that it becomes a permanent fixture. 

Once the dental implant fuses with your jawbone and the new tooth is applied, it looks almost exactly like the rest of your natural teeth. This not only refers to the way it looks but also refers to its strength and structure as a whole.

When you opt for dental implants, you’re able to choose the perfect shade so that it matches and looks just like the rest of your teeth. This provides you with a permanent solution that won’t look or feel any different than the rest of your teeth for a natural appearance and functionality.

Whenever you smile, talk, or eat, your new implant will look just like your other teeth. This means you’ll enjoy a natural appearance and no one else will notice that you have an implant unless you tell them. 

Dental Implants Need Lots of Maintenance

There are some dental care procedures that require more maintenance than usual, including veneers and crowns. But with dental implants, there is very little maintenance needed after the bone has completely healed.

The implants are secured to the rod or post in a way that allows for almost no shifting or movement. That means that once the implant is complete, you shouldn’t have any problems with it loosening as time goes on. Unless something goes wrong, your implant shouldn’t need any more special attention once everything is complete. 

Of course, you’ll still need to take care of your dental health and brush your teeth as you normally would. Always brush and floss your teeth (including the implant) and schedule regular dental checkups for the best and longest-lasting results.

Dental Implants Tend to Fail

One common misconception is that implants only last a decade or less. There are plenty of dental procedures that are prone to failure, but this doesn’t apply to implants. In fact, most dental implants last a lifetime if they’re done by an experienced dental professional.

Implants are one of the most successful dental procedure options available and have an almost 100 percent success rate. This means you’ll enjoy results that last for years, if not for an entire lifetime.

One of the best ways to ensure that your new implants last is to follow the postoperative instructions given to you by your dentist. Follow these instructions carefully and you should be able to enjoy the implants for a long time to come.  

The very first titanium dental implants were administered all the way back in 1965. Since then, dentistry has come a long way and new technology means that today’s implants are even more resilient than ever. 

Dental Implants are Unaffordable

While it’s true that dental implants cost more than some other procedures, they are still a smart investment. To get implants, you’ll need to make several visits to the dentist to take impressions, get x-rays and imaging, and undergo surgery.

You’ll also need to pay for the titanium “screw” as well as the custom-made crown that goes on top of the implant. The entire process is not only involved, but it also takes more time than other options like crowns or veneers.

Because of the complexity of dental implants, it’s not surprising that they cost more. And, many dental insurance companies still don’t cover the procedure at all. Check with your insurance company to confirm, and then talk to your dentist about a possible payment plan. 

When it comes down to it, choosing to get implants is a smart investment in your well-being and in your dental health. If you’re missing teeth or need to have teeth replaced, it’s certainly worth the cost in the long run.

Get Peace of Mind and a Healthy Smile

Now that you know more about the truth of dental implants, it’s something to consider. With these common myths debunked, you can go into your appointment with confidence and peace of mind and come out with a healthy smile. 

If you’re interested in learning more about our restorative dentistry options or you’d like to make an appointment, be sure to contact Albee Family Dental today to find out more.