Are you hesitant about replacing your missing teeth with dental implants in Houston because of some rumors you’ve heard about them? Even though nearly three million Americans have chosen to get dental implants and another 500,000 are placed every year, there are still many misconceptions about this treatment. Picking how you want to rebuild your smile is a big decision, so it’s essential that you have all the correct information you need! Read on as we bust five of the most common myths about replacing missing teeth with dental implants.
Myth #1: Only Older Adults Get Dental Implants
While tooth loss is commonly associated with older age, anyone can find themselves with a gap or two in their smile! Whether from an injury, gum disease, or poor oral hygiene, tooth loss can affect smiles of any age. Thankfully, as long as your jaw is fully developed and your gums are healthy, you can consider dental implants however young or old you are.
Myth #2: People Will Notice That I Have Dental Implants
Thanks to modern dental technology and materials, dentists can able to create spectacularly lifelike restorations. They’ll take impressions of your mouth and precisely craft your dental implant out of lifelike dental porcelain so that it looks just like a natural tooth. In fact, once it’s placed, your dental implant will be practically indistinguishable from the rest of your smile!
Myth #3: It Hurts to Get Dental Implants
Dental implant surgery may sound daunting at first, but there’s no need to worry. Your gums and mouth will be completely numbed with powerful anesthetic. You may feel a bit of pressure during the process, but it’s highly unlikely that you’ll experience any discomfort. In some cases, your dentist may even recommend sedation dentistry to ensure your procedure is as comfortable and relaxing as possible.
Myth #4: Dental Implants Are Really Expensive
Some dental insurance policies cover parts or percentages of the dental implant process, so your treatment may not be as expensive as you think. However, it’s important to remember that dental implants are an investment in your long-term wellbeing. In fact, since they have the potential to last you a lifetime, they may end up being a more cost-effective choice than options like dentures or dental bridges that would need to be replaced periodically.
Myth #5: I Can’t Eat My Favorite Foods with Dental Implants
The only time your dental implants will restrict what you can eat is directly after they’ve been placed. Once you mouth has fully healed, you can expect to enjoy 80% or more restored biting force! You’ll easily be able to munch on all your favorite snacks and meals.
Dental implants offer a wide variety of benefits that you simply can’t achieve with other tooth replacement options. Talk to your dentist today to see if this life-changing treatment is right for you!
About the Author
Dr. Donald F. Tamborello of Tamborello Dental Associates has been providing quality care for the smiles of Houston for over 32 years. Thanks to his commitment to continuing education and excellent technique, he has been recognized as a Master of the Academy of General Dentistry, which is the highest honor available from the organization. Alongside his highly trained team, he strives to help every patient achieve and maintain great oral health for life. To learn more about dental implants, feel free to contact him via his website or at (713) 522-7540.