Fact vs. Fiction: Debunking 4 Myths About Dental Implants

August 22, 2018

Filed under: Uncategorized — Madelaine @ 8:45 pm

facts vs mythsIf you’re thinking about getting dental implants, you’ve probably heard a lot about this treatment. Some of what you’ve heard might thrill you and make you look forward to restoring your smile with implants. Then again, maybe you’ve come across some information that makes you hesitate to ask your dentist if this procedure is right for you. Let’s take a moment to debunk a few common myths about dental implants so you’ll be able to commit to them with confidence.

Myth #1: Bridges Are Better Than Implants

A traditional dental bridge is a good way to replace missing teeth, but it has a few distinct disadvantages. For example, bridges require that the teeth next to the gap in your smile be filed down and topped with crowns. Bridges also do nothing to replace the root of a missing tooth; they only restore the top part.

Dental implants, on the other hand, do not require that the adjacent teeth be filed down. And since they are inserted into the jaw, they replace both the roots and crowns of missing teeth. They can thus help to fortify the jawbone and provide you with a new smile that lasts for decades.

Myth #2: It Is Extremely Painful to Get Dental Implants

You should be comfortable during the implant placement surgery. Your dentist will make sure the area around the tooth is completely numb, and you may also be sedated. After the procedure, there might be some mild pain and swelling around the area, but these should be easy to manage with mild medications and a few temporary adjustments to your eating habits.

Myth #3: Implants Don’t Look Like Natural Teeth

Dental implants themselves are small titanium posts, which obviously do not look anything like natural teeth. However, the posts are invisible once your dentist places the restorations (artificial teeth) on them. These restorations are often made of porcelain, which can be crafted to match the color of the teeth around it. Porcelain even reflects light in a manner that is similar to that of natural teeth. Really, implants are one of the most aesthetically pleasing tooth replacement options!

Myth #4: It’s Okay to Buy “Bargain” Implants

Some practices offer unreasonably low prices, and they may do so because they use low-quality materials. Or, the advertised price may reflect only a portion of the implant treatment. Be sure to scrutinize these prices and check the credentials of any implant dentist whom you are thinking about using for your procedure.

Don’t let misinformation hold you back from regaining your lost smile! For many people, dental implants are, without a doubt, the best way to replace missing teeth.

About the Author

Dr. James A. Moreau, Jr. is proud to serve as your general and restorative dentist in Covington. He is well-qualified to both place and restore dental implants, and he would love to help you get your smile back to 100%! To schedule an implant consultation or to get more information about our restorative services, contact us at 985-809-7645.

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