Facts and Myths About the Dental Implant Procedure

Many people in the United States have dental implants, but that does not change the fact that misinformation about the procedure still runs rampant. Check out these myths and facts about them to help you determine if implant surgery is right for you.

Myths and facts about implants

There are many myths about implants. Learn about the myths and the facts to help you determine if you have received false information.

Myth: Everyone can tell you have implants

Many people assume that implants are easy to spot. They worry that someone will point out the fact that their teeth are not natural and cause an embarrassing situation.

Fact: Implants look like natural teeth

Because implants are a permanent solution, they look exactly like real teeth. They are even specially made to match your natural tooth color. Nobody will ever be able to tell the difference, and you will never need to worry about an embarrassing loss of dentures at the dining table.

Myth: Implant surgery is highly invasive

One of the most common myths about implants is that the surgery is extremely invasive, very painful, and takes a long time to heal, which causes disruption to daily life.

Fact: Implant surgery is minimally invasive

The reality is that implant surgery relies on modern technology. This means that the surgery is minimally invasive. The procedure requires about one hour to place the implants. Most people are able to get back to regular activity within a few days. The titanium rods do require several months to heal, but most people do not feel pain and do not notice any impact on their daily lives.

Myth: Implants are only for young people

Some people assume that implants are only meant for young people since they are a permanent solution. Many also believe that only young people are healthy enough to have the procedure.

Fact: Implants are for everyone

Everybody deserves to have a smile that they love. Implants are for people of all ages and from all walks of life. The procedure only requires that you be in good overall health, have healthy gums and jawbone, and have one or more missing teeth.

Myth: Implants are too expensive

Implants cost tens of thousands of dollars. Insurance rarely covers them as a necessary procedure, which means people who have them paid out of pocket.

Fact: It is important to look at the big picture

When you consider upfront costs, dental implants do cost more. However, it is important to look at the bigger picture. Implants last for the rest of your life, which means that as long as you take care of them properly, the upfront cost is the only major cost you will ever have. On the other hand, other alternatives may only last from five to 15 years and there are costs involved in the upkeep and replacement of them.