Making Decisions About Home Care

Exposing Dental Implant Myths And Misconceptions

by Mae Ferguson

Having had the luck of losing one of your teeth can be a frightening experience due to the implications that it can have for your appearance. Not surprisingly, there are any people that will want to have the missing tooth replaced as quickly as possible. However, making informed choices about replacing missing teeth can be difficult if you do not have a sufficient knowledge about the available replacement options. Having the following myths about dental implants refuted will help you to be informed about addressing this issue.

Myth: A Dental Implant Will Not Be Reliable

There are many patients that have concerns about the reliability of dental implants. However, you should be aware that dental implants are extremely reliable when compared to other corrective options. This reliability stems from the fact that the implant is directly installed in the jawbone. As a result, the implant will be extremely secure. Additionally, these implants are not subjected to the risk of decay or discoloration, which can help to prevent you from needing to have it replaced in the future. However, you will still need to have your teeth cleaned as it is possible for germs and bacteria to gather on the surface of the implant, which may contribute to the formation of gum disease.

Myth: Dental Implants Do Not Offer Advantages Over Bridges

As a result of dental implants costing more than bridges or other replacement options, there are some individuals that may be skeptical about the added benefits that come with this increase in cost. However, you should be relieved to learn that it is possible for implants to offer you a number of important advantages over bridges. For example, dental implants will last far longer than bridges, which can help you to avoid the embarrassment and repair costs that come with a failed bridge.

Also, implants can help to provide better support to your mouth. This is due to the fact that the implant is drilled into the jaw bone. This will help to simulate the presence of a tooth root, which can keep the jaw from atrophying. In addition to causing cosmetic issues, an atrophying jaw bone can also allow the other teeth to become loose, which can make them more likely to fail or need extraction. Lastly, a bridge may be more likely to expose the patient to the risk of gum disease because it can be possible for food and other particles to get under the bridge, which can make it difficult to remove. Over time, this can lead to a pocket of bacteria forming under the bridge, which can infect the gums.

For more information, talk to a professional like Joe Rosenberg, DDS.

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