When it comes to replacing the natural tooth root, dental implants are the gold standard. Despite popular belief, the dental implant is not the replacement tooth itself. Dental implants are surgically-secured devices that secure prosthetic teeth and abutments (connecting piece).
If you or a loved one are considering tooth removal and replacement, continue reading. In this blog, Dr. Arpit Pathak, a Coffs Harbour Dentist, clears up four more common myths and misconceptions about dental implants.
Myth #1: Dental implants are expensive.
According to Dental Costs Australia, dental implants range in cost based on how many teeth need to be replaced and the location of the office:
- Single Dental Implants: $2,850 to $6,500
- A Single Dental Implant Plus Bone Grafting: $4,000 to $11,500
- All-on-4® Dental Implants: $15,000-$30,000
While it’s true that dental fillings, root canals, and other dental procedures are less expensive than dental implant surgery. Most dentists suggest other less costly and more conservative treatments if the tooth root can be saved. However, it’s important to note that this is not an option in certain circumstances.
Dental implants are the most effective method of replacing missing teeth, and the benefits are priceless. Implant-supported restorations:
- Behave like natural teeth
- Are intended to last a lifetime
- Prevent facial bone loss
- Stabilize neighboring teeth
Over time, these benefits add up and may lead to less time and money needed for maintenance. Investing in dental implants now can eliminate the need for future procedures and therapies in the future.
Myth #2: Implant surgery is scary and painful.
Even though anxious attitudes towards dental practice settings are a global, prevalent problem, anxiety does not equate to reality. Before dental implant surgery, your dentist will:
- Explain what will happen during surgery and recovery.
- Administer local anesthesia and optional sedation to add comfort to the dental surgery.
- If necessary, prescribe pain management for post-procedure discomfort
Myth #3: Dental implants require additional maintenance.
Indeed, dental implant patients must take additional precautions during healing (such as diet changes). However, implant-supported restoration maintenance after recovery is similar to typical dental care routines.
Dental implants are not as delicate as you may think, and a key component of successful implantation is successful osseointegration. Osseointegration involves bonding the load-bearing implant with the surrounding bone, which allows the implant the next best thing to a natural tooth root.
After successful osseointegration, patients with dental implants are encouraged to:
- Brush and floss teeth daily
- Visit the dentist for routine exams and professional cleanings every six months
When practiced consistently, dental hygiene habits prevent the development of tooth decay and gum disease. As a bonus, dental restorations are not susceptible to cavities and other issues like natural teeth.
Myth #4: Dental implants do not work for people with dentures.
If you are missing an entire row or set of teeth, consider All-on-4 dental implants. All-on-4 implants can replace the need for traditional dentures and bone grafts, using just four dental implants to support a full arch.
Learn More About Dental Implants with a Coffs Harbour Dentist
At Magic Smiles Dental Implant Centre, Dr. Pathak helps patients decide if dental implants are the best option for each one-of-a-kind smile. Save your smile and act now. Schedule a consultation for dental implants with our Coffs Harbour Dentist by:
- Calling (02) 5645-6376
- Emailing [email protected]
- Conveniently contacting us online
