3 myths about implant surgery
With more than 30 million Americans with missing teeth, dental implant surgery is becoming the standard treatment for replacing missing teeth. There is another option to replace missing teeth – dentures – but the benefits of dental implants – a more beautiful and lasting a lifetime smile – make them the preferred choice.
Dental implants are a great way to replace missing teeth but some people are hesitant to embark on this treatment. To help you decide of dental implants truly are the solution for you, here are some myths about dental implants that we’d like to debunk.
Myth 1: It’s too expensive
Any dental restoration has an original outlay of cash. But we think it’s better to think of the cost of implants in terms of the long run. While the up front cost of dentures is less, there are several drawbacks.
- The fit needs to be early perfect, so you should plan on several follow-up adjustment appointments.
- Dentures need to be replaced every 5 – 8 years.
- Dentures need special adhesives and cleaning products.
On the other hand, dental implants can last a lifetime if they are well looked after. They require the same care as your natural teeth, brushing, flossing and regular check-ups and, once implanted and healed, they need no follow-up care.
Myth 2: It takes too long
While it’s true that dental implants generally take “longer” than dentures, the truth about timing is more complex because every individual is unique.
Dentures typically take several months. If you have any unhealthy teeth remaining, they will need to be removed before your dentures can be made. If this is your case, add an extra 3 – 4weeks for healing. It takes an average of 4 visits to make dentures. Once you have your dentures, your dentist will likely schedule a secondary fitting appointment after several weeks.
Generally, the dental implants process takes 6 – 8 months. Step one is the biggy – it’s what takes up the most time because it’s the surgery step. Titanium screws or “root implants” are inserted into your jawbone. After the surgery has been completed, you jaw must heal. Once healed, the abutments and crowns are installed.
Myth 3: It hurts
Pain is one of the most common concerns people have about dental implants. Because it is a surgical process, you can anticipate some pain. The surgery itself is typically not painful because your dentist will use a general or local anesthetic.
After the anesthetic has worn off, you may experience some pain. Your dentist will probably prescribe pain-killers to help you through the healing stage. Once healed, the rest of the process is relatively painless.
Learn more
While dental implants can be a more complex process than dentures, the benefits far out weight the drawbacks of upfront costs and time. If you would like to learn more about dental implants, please come in for a complimentary consultation.
