Many experts consider dental implants the ideal way to rebuild smiles after tooth loss because of their many unique advantages. Unlike dentures and bridges, these restorations are surgically placed directly in your jaw and eventually fuse with the bone to become a more permanent part of your mouth.
They tend to be stronger and longer-lasting as a result, but you might hesitate to proceed with this treatment if you’re functioning under misconceptions about it. With that in mind, continue reading to learn about 3 myths about dental implants you shouldn’t believe!
Myth #1: They Will Look Unnatural
If you’re worried that your new teeth will stick out like a sore thumb, you can thankfully set your concerns aside. The post that’s inserted in your jaw is capped with a restoration, such as a dental crown, bridge, or dentures, depending on the number of teeth that went missing, which are made from resilient, tooth-colored materials.
For example, your dentist can provide a custom porcelain prosthetic carefully crafted to match the size, shape, and tone of your enamel, delivering beautiful results that blend in seamlessly. Plus, this is the only treatment that’s firmly rooted in your jawbone, meaning it looks and functions more like natural teeth than other potential solutions.
Myth #2: They’ll Develop Cavities
Getting dental implants involves an investment of personal time and resources, and you might hesitate to proceed if you’re convinced that your new teeth will develop disease or decay like the ones you lost.
Fortunately, these prosthetics aren’t made from the same organic materials, so they don’t get cavities. However, you must clean your mouth consistently to prevent bacteria from penetrating the site, which can potentially cause infections, such as peri-implantitis, the leading cause of failure. This can be avoided by brushing and flossing twice daily to remove plaque and bacteria that contribute to many common oral issues.
Myth #3: I Waited Too Long to Get Them
Did you know that your jaw starts thinning after teeth fall out because there are fewer roots to stimulate new bone growth each time you bite down? If left untreated for too long, this degenerative process can eventually lead to additional tooth loss, as well as sunken-looking cheeks, a protruding chin, and more facial wrinkles.
Getting dental implants helps preserve your jawbone, but if it’s been a while since your teeth went missing, you might worry your mouth isn’t strong enough to support your new teeth. Thankfully, it’s not necessarily too late! Some patients may require an additional bone graft or other preliminary services to improve their dental health, after which they can proceed with the implant procedure successfully.
If you’re unsure whether you’re a good candidate for these lifelike replacement teeth, you can learn more by scheduling an appointment with your provider!
Meet the Author
Dr. John J. Roberson takes pride in helping improve his patients’ lives by enhancing their dental health. He earned his dental degree from the Louisiana State University School of Dentistry before completing a one-year Advanced Education in General Dentistry residency. Today, he remains committed to continuing education and offers a complete menu of services using advanced technology to deliver customized treatment plans to meet your unique needs. He works with local experts for accurate implant placement and can then provide a lifelike replacement tooth to restore your smile’s function and appearance. You can request an appointment on the website or call (318) 343-2633.