Let the Truth Shine Forth: Three Dental Implant Falsehoods Busted

Dental implants are an excellent way to restore a compromised smile because they look and work just like real teeth. While dentists regard them as the ideal form of tooth replacement, there is a host of misinformation about them that might give many prospective patients the wrong idea of how they work. Since it’s important to be properly informed before committing to treatment, here are three popular falsehoods about dental implants along with the real facts.

Falsehood #1: Dental Implants Are Conspicuous

The art and science of tooth replacement have come a long way since George Washington wore false teeth made from ivory. When you hear about artificial teeth that look and function just like the real thing, it’s almost perfectly reasonable to assume that it’s too good to be true. However, dental implants are placed directly in and fused to the jawbone, creating a sturdy hold that allows the restoration to function just like a real tooth. The crowns attached to the implants are made of durable and lifelike materials, ensuring that they will be seamless with the rest of your smile.

Falsehood #2: Dental Implant Placement Hurts

While anyone might be a little hesitant about dental implants since they are placed through oral surgery, the truth is that the procedure is completely painless. Your oral surgeon will use a local anesthetic treatment to numb the area receiving the implant, and you may also receive dental sedation treatments if you need a little more help sitting comfortably through the procedure. Many patients claim that receiving and recovering from dental implant surgery is a far more comfortable process than having their wisdom teeth removed.

Falsehood #3: Dental Implants Are Unreliable

If you’ve heard that dental implants break easily or don’t have long lifespans, nothing could be further from the truth. While bad habits like smoking, excessive drinking, poor oral hygiene, chewing on ice or found objects, or using the teeth to open bottles or packages can cause dental implants to fail sooner than they otherwise would, they can last for thirty-five years or even a lifetime with proper care. They also boast an impressive success rate of over 95%, making them a sound investment in your future oral health and quality of life.

Don’t let a few misconceptions get in the way of your beautifully restored smile. Consulting with your dentist can help determine if dental implants are right for you.

About the Author

Dr. Zack Walker earned his dental degree at the University of Northern Carolina School of Dentistry and completed his Advanced Education in General Dentistry residency at the East Carolina University School of Dental Medicine. He is proud to be a member of the American Dental Association and the Academy of General Dentistry. His office in Kernersville, NC, offers general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry as well as dental implant services. To schedule a consultation for dental implants, contact his office online or dial (336) 993-3727.