Dental implants in Columbia are an effective way to treat many types of oral health problems. Despite this fact, a number of unfounded myths persist about this time-tested, effective form of therapy. In this post we’ll examine these misconceptions and see whether they stand up to the facts. Use this information to decide which treatment option is best in your case.
Myth #1: Dental Implants are Painful
In reality, nothing is more painful than uncorrected dental problems. Just ask anyone who has suffered from the agony of a prolonged toothache. Multiply that pain many times over and you’ll have a good idea of what living with damaged or missing teeth is like.
On the other hand, receiving a dental implant is a gentle, safe procedure. Patients report having zero implant -related discomfort once the post-treatment healing process is complete.
Of course, this doesn’t mean that people with implants are free to ignore important habits like brushing and flossing. Implants require the same level of care as your natural teeth in order to last over the long term.
Myth # 2: Dental Implants Never Last
Studies show that dental implants have a 98% success rate. On the rare occasions that they do fail, the cause can usually be traced back to either another health condition entirely or a mistake made during the implant process. This is why you should only choose a Columbia dentist with the proper training and experience needed to perform your treatment. You deserve no less.
Myth # 3: Dental Implants Look Fake
Nothing could be further from the truth. Modern implants are designed to match the recipient’s surrounding teeth and soft tissues precisely. You can step out in confidence knowing that your implant is indistinguishable from a natural tooth.
Myth # 4: Dental Implants Are Nothing but Fancy Dentures
To the contrary, dental implants function just like normal, healthy teeth. An implant will never force you to restrict your speech patterns, sacrifice the foods you love or give up favorite activities like dancing, exercising or socializing. Compare this to dentures, which require messy adhesives, affect the taste of your food and require constant vigil to prevent them from becoming loose.
Myth #5: Dental Implants Can Rust
At the heart of every implant is a surgical-grade titanium post, the same metal used to fabricate the wings of jet airplanes. It will never rust.
Among titanium’s many advantages is its ability to bond with human tissue. This means that your implant will literally become part of your body. The same cannot be set of dentures or other alternative treatments.
Did you know that dental implant therapy has been around for more than 40 years? Over that time dentists have continuously improved their tools and techniques. That’s why we say that modern dental implants are the best option available for treating problems like damaged or missing teeth.
Don’t let myths and misconceptions prevent you from enjoying a better life. See your dentist in Columbia soon and get the facts for yourself. You’ll look back on this decision with a big smile on your face.
About the Author
Dr. Kyle Williams earned his DDS degree from the University of Buffalo in New York State. He is specially trained in implant placement and other forms of oral surgery. You can reach his office online or by calling (931) 388-8452.