As dentists who work with dental implants on a daily basis, we have a tendency to believe we are experts in implant technology. However, dental implants are still a growing technology that is rife with myths and erroneous information. A thorough research into the myths, realities, and facts surrounding dental implants can help us improve the overall health and contentment of our patients.
Patients and dentists favor dental implants because they are long-lasting, dependable, and aesthetically pleasing. They provide a variety of benefits to their owners and, with proper maintenance, can last a lifetime. As widespread as dental implants have gotten over the years, there are still many misconceptions around them. Five unexpected facts concerning dental implants are provided here.
FACT #1: DENTAL IMPLANTS REALLY WORK
Dentures allow patients to regain approximately 30% of their chewing ability. This is nevertheless life-changing and can allow people to eat more easily and keep their facial structure, but it pales in comparison to the staggering 80 percent or more that dental implants can restore. In addition, dental implants have a success rate of over 95%, so the likelihood of them returning your smile to its former splendor is quite high.
FACT #2: IMPLANTS ARE CAVITY-RESISTANT
Since dental implants are constructed of titanium and their restorations (often crowns) are made of synthetic materials, they are not prone to tooth decay. This reduces your likelihood of developing gum disease and other oral health problems. Nevertheless, it is essential to maintain your remaining natural teeth. They are still susceptible to decay, so be careful to brush twice daily for two minutes and floss at least once, preferably before night.
FACT#3:YOU WILL NEED TO WATCH YOU CONSUME
Since dental implants are permanent and restore nearly all of your biting power, you will be able to eat almost anything after they have fully healed. However, as you wait for your implants to heal, you must be mindful of what you eat. It may just take a week or two for them to feel normal, but it will take four to six months for the implants to totally merge with the jawbone through osseointegration. During this period, stick to softer foods and avoid those that are spicy, acidic, tough, sticky, chewy, or crunchy, as well as those that are excessively hot or cold.
FACT #4: THEY ENHANCE SELF-CONFIDENCE
If you are lacking teeth, you may feel self-conscious and embarrassed to smile. In addition to the oral health benefits that dental implants provide, they can also fill in gaps in your smile, making you feel more comfortable and confident with the appearance of your teeth.
FACT #5: IMPLANTS CAN BE RELATIVELY AFFORDABLE
In certain instances, dental implants may be the least expensive option for replacing missing teeth. This is due to the fact that other tooth replacement methods do not last as long. Dentures must be replaced every seven to ten years, while bridges can endure between five and fifteen years. Since, with proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime, they may save you money in the long run because you won’t need replacements.
Dental implants are a dependable treatment for missing teeth that can improve your self-esteem, bite, and oral health overall. Contact your dentist to determine if they are the best option for completing your smile.
In conclusion, dental implants are a good alternative for tooth replacement. They are long-lasting and natural-looking, and with proper care, they can last a lifetime with little to no upkeep. Any implant dentist worth his or her salt will be able to tell you, however, that the main reason they are so expensive is that they are only one part of the process – the surgery itself is the only part where dentures could be purchased instead – and in many cases, the rest of the cost could come out of the dentist’s own pocket.