Dental implants are an innovative and advanced method of replacing missing or severely damaged teeth, and they can help restore both the function and aesthetics of your smile. However, as dental implants become more popular, a number of common misconceptions have developed about them. Ballston Lake cosmetic dentist Colin Morton, DDS has been placing beautiful, natural-looking implants and implant-supported restorations for years. Below, he discusses and demystifies some of the most prevalent dental implant myths:
Myth #1: Dental Implants Can Only Replace Single Teeth
Many patients are under the impression that if they are missing multiple teeth, they will need to replace them all with individual dental implants. While this is certainly one possibility, it is oftentimes not the optimal solution to widespread tooth loss. Instead, a few implants can be used to anchor a custom restoration, such as an implant bridge or an implant supported denture. This is frequently a more cost-effective approach than single-tooth restorations, while also requiring less jawbone density, which means a greater number of patients are eligible for treatment. In fact, methods like All-on-4® enable Dr. Morton to provide patients with a brand new set of teeth using approximately four to six dental implants per arch.
Myth #2: Dental Implants Are High-Maintenance
While some people may be under the impression that dental implants are difficult to care for, this is not the case. Dental implants are made of highly durable materials, and since they are designed to replace the entire tooth structure—including the tooth roots—they can typically be cared for just like regular teeth. This means maintaining good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing consistently while making sure to schedule routine professional cleanings.
Myth #3: Dental Implants Are Painful
Since dental implants are surgically placed, people often wonder if the treatment process is painful. In reality, the implant procedure is typically performed under local anaesthesia, and this is usually enough to mitigate any discomfort associated with surgery. For patients who are more prone to dental anxiety, Dr. Morton offers sedation dentistry techniques that can help make the procedure an even more relaxing experience. Furthermore, while it is true that patients may experience some initial soreness following the placement of their implant posts, this discomfort is typically quite manageable with medication, and should fade over time. Once your implants have fully integrated into your mouth, they typically look, function, and feel just like natural teeth!
Myth #4: Dental Implants Are Not Affordable
Dental implants have developed a reputation for being unaffordably expensive, especially in comparison to other restorative options such as dental bridges and traditional dentures. However, while the upfront costs associated with dental implants are often higher than other treatments, they can actually save you money over the long-term! Dental implants can help protect your jaw and gum health, preventing bone deterioration, decay, and further tooth loss. The implant posts are also designed to fuse with your jawbone, meaning that—with proper care—they can be a permanent part of your mouth that will not require replacement!
Myth #5: Any Dentist Can Place an Implant
With dental implants becoming increasingly popular, more and more dentists have started offering them as a possible treatment. However, not just any dentist should be placing an implant. Implant success rates can be heavily influenced by the skill and experience of the dental professional placing them, and the precision with which they are placed can help ensure optimal strength, function, and durability. Dr. Morton has extensive training and experience as an implantologist, and he regularly attends continuing education seminars and workshops on implant dentistry. He is also a fellow of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists. He takes your health, comfort, and satisfaction very seriously, and he strives to ensure that the implants he places are of the highest-quality and deliver optimal results.
Ultimately, dental implants can be an excellent method of tooth replacement for many patients due to their ability to provide functional, natural-looking, and long-lasting tooth replacement. However, as with any procedure, it is important to be properly informed prior to pursuing treatment. If you have any further questions about dental implants, or if you would like to schedule an appointment with Dr. Morton, please contact us today!
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