Let’s Squash the Rumors: 3 Myths About Dental Implants It’s Time to Dispel

The decision to receive dental implants to replace any number of missing teeth can be an exciting one. The discovery of how long these prosthetics last as well as how natural they look and feel tends to win patients over when choosing between dental implants and traditional tooth replacement options like dentures and dental implants. But what about the rumors that come with these kinds of treatment? It’s time to dispel these three dental implant myths, so you can pursue a healthier smile without worry.

Myth #1: Dental Implants Are Only Available For Those Who Have Lost All Their Teeth

This is untrue. Dental implants are actually known for their versatility. Capable of replacing a single missing tooth, multiple missing teeth, and entire arches, these prosthetics can rebuild smiles of all types.

This is why a thorough consultation with your dentist is essential, as it not only determines how quickly you can move forward with dental implant surgery, but it also identifies the type of restoration you will need.

You can expect that a customized crown, bridge, or denture will be crafted to look and feel completely natural so that it blends in with any existing teeth from the start.

Myth #2: Dental Implants Will Not Allow Me to Eat My Favorite Foods

It is true that immediately following surgery, you will be restricted to a soft food diet. This is to allow your implants to fuse with the bone tissues, and dense foods can compromise the osseointegration process.

However, once you are fully healed and your restoration is secured in place, you are free to consume all your favorite foods. This is one of the great benefits of these prosthetics. Not only do you not have to worry about your teeth slipping or falling out, but you can enjoy all kinds of foods because of the stronger bite force and chewing power you will have with dental implants.

Myth #3: Dental Implants Are Not Affordable

Yes, it is true that dental implants are costlier than dentures or dental bridges, but the investment is well worth it.

Many dental insurance companies do not offer coverage for dental implants; however, they do provide coverage for certain aspects of treatment (i.e., preliminary care or your dental restoration). No matter the stipulations, you can expect that your dental team will review your plan and help you save as much as possible out of pocket.

To say they are not affordable is not true, especially since many dentist’s offices offer flexible financing. Also, the amount you spend on denture adhesives and regular replacements for traditional tooth replacements is often far greater than the cost of dental implants.

While these may only be three myths, you can begin to feel more confident and comfortable in your decision to choose dental implants to restore your smile.

About the Author
Dr. Chitra Naik has more than 25 years of experience in the field of dentistry. After studying at the Government Dental College in Mumbai, India, she moved to the United States to pursue her Doctor of Dental Medicine degree at the Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine. As a skilled professional who can help patients suffering from tooth loss, she offers dental implants as a way to restore smiles and boost confidence. If you are interested in dental implants, contact us at (810) 235-5422.