Five Common Dental Implant Myths
Dental implant treatment uses metal posts to replace missing teeth. Unlike dentures, these restorations are permanent and help to preserve bone support. However, as effective as they are, most people shy away from implants because of the several misconceptions surrounding them. In this post, we list some of the myths and helps clear out all your doubt about implants.
Myth 1: Implants are Noticeable
Implants are not noticeable as they resemble your natural teeth and create a seamless look. Dental implants are made of three parts; titanium screws, abutment or connector, and crowns. These screws are fixed on the jaw bone, and after the gum healing, the implant bond to the bone to create strong support.
The crowns are usually made of porcelain and they resemble your natural teeth. These implants, when fixed correctly, are barely noticeable.
Myth 2: The Procedure is Too Long
Most people shy away from implants because of the fear of the long process. Admittedly, implant treatment can be a bit longer than other treatments like bridges. But, the process will only last for a couple of months based on your dental condition. The process involves:
1. Mapping and planning
The dental implant treatment begins by examination. The dentist will do a comprehensive dental assessment to check the condition of the bone. You need to have enough bone support for the implants to be fixed. The dentist will take you through the implant process and what you can expect.
If you lack the required bone density, the dentist will do a bone graft. This procedure involves fixing bone granules from your body or cadaver to stimulate bone growth. A bone graft procedure can lengthen the implant process.
2. Fixing the implant
The dentist will drill a hole in the jaw to fix the screws. The gum can be stitched to facilitate healing. A temporary denture may be used to cover the teeth and protect them during the healing process.
The bone needs to fuse to the implant for the treatment to be successful. If the process fails, the body may end up rejecting the implant.
3. Fixing the abutment
The abutment is the connector that holds the implant and the crown together. The dentist will open the jaw to fix the connector. It will take a couple of weeks for the gums to heal and be ready for the dental crowns.
4. Fixing the crown
The final step is to place the dental crowns. These crowns can be fixed or removable based on the number of teeth missing. For the fixed ones, you can either have them screwed or cemented in place.
Myth 3: The Process Will Be Painful
No, fixing the dental implants is not painful. The dentist will numb the gums and soft tissues to ease the discomfort. Dental sedation can be used to relax and make the process bearable. You may feel a slight discomfort as the anesthesia begin to wear out. But, the dentist will prescribe pain medication and antibiotics to ease pain and prevent infection.
Myth 4: Anyone Can Get Implants
While implants are effective, they are not ideal for all people. Young children whose teeth and jaw are still developing are not candidates for implants. Your jaw needs to have attained maturity for the implants to be fixed.
Also, you need to have sufficient bone support. Your bone density is important to the success of the treatment.
It is important to have healthy gums free of decay and infection and good lifestyle habits like no smoking. Tobacco smoking affects the gum healing process and the dentist may opt for other treatments.
Myth 5: Implants Require Special Care
Implants resemble your teeth in appearance and function. Therefore, you need to treat them as your normal teeth. Maintain your standard dental procedure to keep the teeth healthy and free of bacteria. Do not forget to visit the dentist every six months for cleaning and assessment.
Schedule an Appointment
Visit Tarpon Shores Dental office in Sarasota, FL for more information on dental implants and how they are fixed.