Do you need to have your teeth replaced? Then you may want to consider dental implants. Through the use of a small anchor point, a substitute tooth can be placed in your mouth even if you’ve entirely lost your own tooth. This makes dental implants a popular choice for replacing missing teeth, especially when a dental crown or bridge isn’t a good treatment option.
Despite how popular and safe they are, there are many myths that patients believe about dental implants. Are you interested in dental implants, but aren’t sure if they’re the right treatment for you? Our dental team at My Sunshine Dentistry is happy to help by dispelling some of the most common myths so you can learn everything you need to know about dental implants:
Myth #1: Dental implants are more painful than other treatments
While some surgery is required for dental implant treatment, patients should expect very little to no pain from treatment. Local anesthesia is used to numb the mouth, allowing dentists to safely insert implants and get back to their normal day to day shortly after their office visit is done.
What is true though is that recovery for dental implant treatment can be longer and more uncomfortable compared to other dental treatments. In the majority of cases, over-the-counter pain medication should be enough to handle any pain that arises. Just make sure you follow your dentist’s recovery instructions, and take any medicine they prescribe, following treatment.
Myth #2: Dental implants don’t last that long
Many dental treatments, such as dental crowns and bridges, have an average functional lifespan of about 10 to 15 years. With proper oral hygiene, dental implants can last much longer. For the average patient, dental implants can last 20 to 30 years, and in some cases will last patients their whole lifetime.
On a related note, some people believe that dental implants aren’t worth it due to the higher cost compared to other treatment options. With their longer functional lifespan and by cutting back on how many visits you have to make to the dentist, you can potentially save money in the long run by getting dental implant treatment.
Myth #3: Dental implants aren’t healthy for you
Some patients are worried about dental implants due to the metal posts that are inserted into your mouth. While it is true that, just like any surgery there is always a potential risk, the vast majority of patients have nothing to worry about. Modern dental implants have been used to treat patients for over 30 years, with no complications for the vast majority of treatments.
The metal rod serving as a post is made out of an oral friendly titanium or zirconium oxide base. As for the cap on top, it is made out of a ceramic prosthetic that is very similar to what is used in dental crown or dental bridge treatment. Both the post and the cap have been approved by the FDA, and meets international consensus standards for safe use in patient mouths.
Myth #4: Dental implants don’t feel right
While it is ideal that a patient retains their original tooth, dental implants are an effective solution once a tooth has been chipped or broken beyond repair, or has fallen out of the mouth. That’s because dental implants are an effective cosmetic and restorative option for patients.
The dental implant is designed to resemble natural teeth as much as possible, and from an outsider’s perspective it is almost impossible to tell the difference between an implant and a natural tooth. Dental implants are designed to also help with speaking and chewing, so you can regain the function lost when your tooth was damaged or fell out. The benefits offered from treatment is another reason to consider dental implants.
Visit My Sunshine Dentistry for Dental Implants
If you would like to learn more about dental implants, or are interested in other dental services around Cape May Court House, New Jersey, then stop by Sunshine Dentistry. Our experienced dental team would be happy to help you with all of your oral needs, utilizing the latest in dental techniques and technology to help our patients. We’re happy to treat all of our adult patients, and also offer pediatric and family dentistry services as well.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment, or pay a visit to our office if you would like to learn more about our dental services here at My Sunshine Dentistry.