7 Myths About Dental Implants Debunked
Common myths about dental implants – get a better understanding of this excellent treatment for missing teeth
Dental implants are thought by many to be the most innovative, effective and cutting edge way to replace missing teeth currently available. Despite the fact they are widely available, and there are exceptional proven results, there are still lots of myths around about this trusted treatment.
This can prevent some patients from having this transformative treatment, and lead others to have a bit of a shock during an implant consultation, which is why Abbey Road Dental wants to clear up some of the most common myths today. Here are 7 myths about teeth implants debunked:
1. Dental Implants Are Only For One Tooth At A Time
Lots of people think that you have to replace each individual missing tooth with an individual implant. Whilst that is preferable for some people, the implications of each individual placement and the associated cost can be off putting.
The truth is that implants can be placed one at a time, but they can also replace multiple teeth. Often this is done with special procedures like All on 4, Implant Supported Bridges and Implant Supported Dentures. There’s an implant option to suit most people, regardless of whether you’ve lost one tooth, or all your teeth.
2. Implants Are Instant
Certain implant treatments can be relatively fast, such as All on 4, but realistically, all implant treatments take a lot of preparation and a lot of time to heal. By its very nature, it is a surgery that is effective because the implant bonds with the bone, creating a secure base for the crown. Oral surgery isn’t something we at Abbey Road Dental take lightly, and it is something that naturally takes time to be effective, so we’re very honest about the fact this is not an instant treatment. What we can offer is various dental replacements to complete your smile whilst your implants heal, which can be particularly important for the visible teeth.
3. Dental Implants Feel Like Missing Teeth
Dental implants do feel very secure and strong, and are the closest thing to natural teeth currently available. However, the sensation of the implant is not quite the same as your natural teeth. Implants do not move at all when you bite on them, and there are no nerves within them as there are with your natural teeth.
4. Implants Are Expensive
Dental implants are not cheap, by any means, but when you consider the long-term benefits against other tooth replacement options, the financial cost makes more sense. For example, a set of dentures can cost between £500-£1500 pounds, and with the natural changes your mouth goes through without teeth, you could need them replaced every few years to fit properly. Add to that the discomfort, issues with eating and speaking often experienced even with the best dentures, and the investment in implants is evidently worthwhile.
The same can be said for bridges, which can cost thousands of pounds. They can need replacing when they break, or when the natural teeth move.
Dental implants, in comparison, are designed to last decades, protect the natural bone and face shape, and offer you the closest feel and look to natural teeth currently available. It is an investment, but considering the quality of replacement, the length of time they last, and the fact you can often get finance options for them, the expense is shown to be a lot more manageable, measured and worthwhile long-term.
5. Teeth Implants Are Painful
Dental implants are placed surgically, so you will be a little sore after the procedure. However, we use highly effective local anaesthetic so you won’t feel any pain during the procedure itself. The way most patients describe any sensation during or after implant placement is as discomfort rather than pain, and that is usually fleeting and eased with over-the-counter painkillers.
6. Implants Last Forever
Dental implants can fail. We’re completely honest about this with all our patients because it is important to be prepared that failure of an implant can and does happen. Is it common? No. It is rare, and that is because of the detailed patient screening, preparation and aftercare instructions we carry out and advise. With proper oral care they should last decades, and for some people, they will last a lifetime, but it is not guaranteed.
7. Anybody Can Have Implants
Unfortunately, this is not the case. Many people can have implants, but for the best possible chance of successful treatment there are certain things we have to be sure of before we go ahead.
One of the major factors is lifestyle. Smoking and excessive drinking can cause large problems with healing, and so we usually recommend patients try to get those habits under control before considering implants.
There are also various other considerations to make such as health conditions, other lifestyle habits, jaw structure and facial structure, and any gum disease present. These things can all impact a person’s suitability for having implants.
We create a plan of treatment and preparation to prepare a person for implants, but that undertaking may be more than some people are willing to go ahead with. Everybody is different, but we will only ever recommend implant treatment with good chances of success.
Speak To Abbey Road Dental About Implant Treatment Today
If you would love to replace your missing teeth with a secure, natural-looking, strong dental implant or implants, please get in touch. We offer All on 4, single missing tooth implants, Implant Supported Bridges and Implant Supported Dentures.
During your consultation we can answer all your questions and give you an honest and transparent plan based on your individual needs. If implants are not suitable for you at this time, we have a range of other options to help you restore your smile, and your confidence.
Please call our friendly team on 02076241603 and we will be more than happy to answer your questions and book a consultation for you.