Many experts consider dental implants the ideal way to rebuild smiles after permanent tooth loss because of their unique advantages. Unlike traditional dentures and dental bridges, they are placed directly into the jaw so they can eventually fuse with the bone to function more like natural teeth.
But you might not think dental implants are right for you if you’ve heard misinformation about them or don’t know what to expect. With that in mind, read on to learn about 3 myths about these resilient restorations that aren’t necessarily true!
Myth #1: They Look Unnatural
Although replacing lost teeth can improve your ability to bite, chew, and speak normally, closing gaps in your grin can also help improve your appearance and boost your confidence. If you assume that dental implants look bulky, awkward, or stick out like a sore thumb, you might not schedule an initial consultation with your dentist.
But thankfully, that’s not usually the case! Once you’ve recovered sufficiently from the implant placement procedure, your provider can place a lifelike restoration, such as a dental crown, bridge, or dentures, made from customizable ceramic. These are carefully crafted to be the right size, shape, and shade to blend beautifully with your smile.
Myth #2: They’re Difficult to Maintain
Another rumor you might have heard is that dental implants are difficult to maintain because of their placement in your jaw. But the truth is, you can brush and floss them in your mouth like natural teeth, which sets them apart from alternatives like dentures or dental bridges.
That also means you don’t need to remove them twice daily to brush them, and they don’t require special soaking solutions, flossers, or other supplies to keep them in good shape. However, remember not to press string floss so deeply into the pockets of your implants that you accidentally damage their protective seal.
Myth #3: They’re Too Expensive
It’s true that these resilient prosthetics tend to cost more than other restorations upfront because they involve oral surgery and additional biocompatible materials to be successful. But even though dental implants may have a higher price tag, they also offer unique benefits that help pay for themselves over time.
For example, they’re firmly rooted in your jaw and unlikely to become loose or dislodged, reducing the need for costly repairs or replacements. Also, because they don’t usually require special cleaning supplies, you’ll have fewer out-of-pocket expenses to maintain them. With proper care, they can last 20+ years, making them an excellent long-term investment, and many providers offer flexible payment plans to help cover the cost.
If you aren’t sure whether you’re a good candidate for dental implants, you can find out by making an appointment with your dentist!
About the Practice
Patients at Weldon Implant and Cosmetic Dentistry of Ocala benefit from a husband-and-wife dental duo who are passionate about helping them build and maintain the healthiest, most beautiful versions of their smiles. Drs. Daniel and Elizabeth Weldon each have decades of experience, and today, they collaborate to provide a comprehensive menu of services, including start-to-finish dental implant treatments, using advanced technology for comfortable, accurate results meant to last. You can request an appointment on the website or call (352) 622-3236.