The popularity of dental implants as a reliable and lasting dental solution has grown in recent years. According to statistics, over three million people in the UK have had dental implants – with this number increasing by around 500,000 each year.
Nevertheless, several myths remain – keeping many people from seriously considering dental implants as a lasting solution. According to Doctors Implants – an American, doctor-owned practice specialising in full-mouth dental implants – “From rumours about ongoing pain to assumptions about costs, there’s no shortage of misconceptions that make implants sound a lot scarier than they actually are.”
Here, experts debunk six common myths about dental implants.
What are dental implants?
A dental implant is a titanium screen placed directly into the jawbone to replace a missing tooth root. Once fitted, the bone surrounding the implant gradually fuses to the implant, holding it firmly in place.
A false tooth (crown) matching the shape and colour of your existing teeth is then fitted to the top of the implant – providing a fixed and natural-looking smile.
6 common myths about dental implants
1. Myth one – dental implants are a risky procedure and often fail
Dental implants have a high success rate – successfully integrating with bone in over 90% of cases. Many surgeries record success rates as high as 96%.
Plus, in rare cases where a dental implant doesn’t integrate well initially, surgeons will implant a replacement, which resolves issues in close to 100% of cases.
That said, as with any surgical procedure, there are always risks to consider.
2. Myth two – dental implant treatments are very painful
Dental implant procedures sound like they’d be painful, but most patients find that discomfort during implant surgery is surprisingly manageable.
In fact, implants typically cause less irritation than traditional dentures because they attach to the jawbone directly rather than resting on the gums.
According to Doctors Implants, “Modern techniques and sedation options allow for minimal pain during the procedure. Afterwards, over-the-counter pain relief is often enough to manage any discomfort.”
3. Myth three – you need to be young and healthy enough for dental implants
A common myth about dental implants is that they’re only suitable for a small number of people. However, according to experts at Doctors Implants, most people in good health are suitable candidates for dental implants, regardless of age…
“The requirements are much less stringent than people think – in fact, only a few medical conditions will prevent treatment. Elderly patients are often excellent candidates too, enjoying equal success rates to younger individuals.”
Even in cases where bone loss is present, surgeons can often rebuild enough bone to support an implant.
4. Myth four – dental implants are experimental and lack sufficient research
Since Swedish scientist Dr. Per-Ingvar Brånemark carried out the first titanium implant procedure in 1965, dental implants have evolved with extensive research and their history is well-documented.
“Today, implants have nearly 60 years of clinical success behind them” says the team at Doctors Implants.
5. Myth five – dental implants are no more beneficial than dentures
While dentures are a decent option for replacing missing teeth, there are benefits to having dental implants. For example, dental implants allow for much stronger bite and ease while eating and can help to maintain the jawbone – preventing bone loss and facial changes common with long-term denture wear.
Plus, while dental implants are usually more expensive, they may be more cost-effective than dentures in the long term because they typically last longer and require less maintenance.
6. Myth six – dental implants is a long, drawn-out procedure
While every case is different, dental implant treatment typically takes between three and eight months.
However, this can sometimes be much shorter, with many providers offering quick results. For example, Bupa Dental Care’s Smile-in-a-Day treatment replaces all your lower and upper teeth in one day.
Source credit: Doctors Implants
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