
Apr
D ental implants are a reliable and effective way to replace one or more teeth in the smile. However, there are many myths that surround implants, and our team at Main Line Dental Health and Wellness in Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania, want to ensure our patients have correct information when choosing a tooth replacement choice for their needs. Drs. Jerald Matt and Naila Bryan educate patients on the many benefits of dental implants and helps them to avoid any misconceptions that may keep them from choosing the restoration best for their needs. Below are some commonly heard myths about our natural-looking dental implants:
1. Dental implants are painful. While the placement of dental implants does require oral surgery, pain is minimal and can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication. Local anesthesia is used during the procedure to keep patients comfortable, and the discomfort after surgery is usually mild and subsides within a few days.
2. Dental implants are only for older adults. Implants can be placed into the mouth of any healthy adult who has lost one or more teeth. They are not just for seniors. In fact, they are an excellent tooth replacement option for anyone, regardless of age.
3. Dental implants are expensive. The initial cost of quality dental implants might seem higher than other restorations, but they often last longer and require less maintenance over time compared to options like bridges or dentures. And it is important to note that many insurance plans now cover some or even all of the cost of dental implants.
4. Dental implants require a lot of maintenance. Caring for dental implants is actually quite simple. Just brush and floss them like your natural teeth, and visit our dentist regularly for both check-ups and cleanings. With proper care, dental implants will last patients a lifetime.
5. Dental implants look fake. Because dental implants are surgically placed into the jawbone, they provide a very strong foundation for artificial teeth that look, feel, and even function just like the natural teeth. They blend seamlessly with the existing teeth and are virtually indistinguishable from natural teeth.
6. Dental implants take a long time to heal. While it does take some time for the implant to fully integrate with the jaw bone, most of our patients can resume their normal daily activities within a day or two following surgery. The healing process varies greatly depending on individual circumstances but typically takes about three to six months.
7. Dental implants have a low success rate. In reality, dental implants have an extremely high success rate of over 95%. With proper care and continued maintenance, they will last a lifetime without any issues. Failure is rare and usually occurs due to poor oral hygiene or underlying health conditions.
At Main Line Dental Health and Wellness, we want our patients to be well-informed about their dental treatments so they can make educated and knowledgeable decisions regarding their oral health. If you live in or around the area of Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania, we invite you to call our office at (610) 947-5566 to request an upcoming visit with Drs. Jerald Matt and Naila Bryan. Our office is open to new and established patients and is conveniently located at 776 West Lancaster Avenue.