Dental implants offer you the chance to plug any missing teeth with permanent and lasting prosthetic replacements. This allows you to not only improve your cosmetic appearance, since nobody likes a smile with missing teeth, but will also let you chew food properly again. Yet, despite the benefits associated with this dental procedure, many people are hesitant to get it because of preconceived notions about it.
That’s why we are here today to clarify any misconceptions about dental implants so you can visit your local cosmetic dentist in Geelong worry free!
What Are Dental Implants?
A person can lose a few teeth for many reasons, such as old age, health issues, or an accident. Dental implants are widely considered to be the next best thing to natural teeth, making them a perfect replacement.
Cosmetic dentists insert a screw-like device into the jawbone where the missing tooth used to be. Then, they insert an artificial tooth, called a crown, to the device using an abutment. Eventually, the screw-like device fuses with the jawbone, giving the dental implant strength.
Dental implants essentially function as regular teeth, but they also have a few additional benefits. For instance, they decrease the odds of nearby natural teeth developing cavities. They also have a significantly higher success rate than other comparable procedures.
5 Common Myths About Dental Implants
Do not let a few misguided assumptions about the most cutting-edge dental procedure keep you from getting it.
1. Dental Implants Are Painful
Describing dental implants as painful can be hyperbolic. The surgery itself is performed under anaesthetic medication, so you won’t feel any pain whatsoever during it. Once the operation is over and the medication wears off, you might feel a little sore around the treatment area, but that can be readily managed with over-the-counter painkillers until the discomfort wears off.
2. They’re Too Expensive
Whether or not dental implants are pricey depends on how you look at them. While they are admittedly expensive compared to other options, the cost is explained by the complexity of the procedure and the high quality of the materials used. More to the point, dental implants are incredibly durable and long-lasting, meaning you will not need any dental interventions for a while. In other words, you will not need to cover costs for maintenance as regularly as you would have to with dentures or bridges, meaning you might be able to recoup the cost.
3. Implants Don’t Look Natural
Dental implants are designed to look, feel and function like natural teeth. This is because these prosthetic teeth are inserted into the jawbone, giving them the strength of real teeth. At the same time, the crown is shaped like a real tooth and its colour is seamlessly matched with existing teeth. With them, you can smile confidently, knowing that the dental implants will look no different than your natural teeth.
4. They Require Too Much Maintenance
Dental implants are actually widely appreciated for their durability. Not only do they last for a long time, but they do so while being subjected to the same pressures of natural teeth – like chewing food. Yet, they do not require any specialised maintenance during their lifetime. While you will have to undertake basic maintenance, like visiting your dentist or brushing your teeth, you can trust your dental implants to have the strength to survive on their own.
5. Implants Aren’t For Older Adults
Regardless of your age, dental implants are suitable for you. This is because your specific implant will be customised to the shape and fit of your mouth. While dentures are easier and don’t require the extensive surgery of dental implants, they will not have the same long-term viability, natural look and feel, nor the low maintenance requirements. Consequently, dental implants are considered second to none when it comes to replacing missing teeth.
Get Implants from the Best Cosmetic Dentist in Geelong
The key to having a good experience with dental implants is to make sure to get them from a professional dental surgeon. They will make sure your new implants fit right in with the rest of your natural teeth and enhance your smile. Moreover, with the right care and quality materials, they will ensure your teeth function optimally and last long without needing excessive maintenance.
Evidently, dental implants offer the best pathway for replacing missing teeth. Now that you know how misguided many of the common misconceptions about implants are, it is time to get in touch with a cosmetic dentist in Geelong and get yours. And if you still have any questions that need answering, then an expert would still be your best option moving forward.
