Three Myths about Dental Implants

Dental implants are restorative devices for men and women who have lost their teeth or require tooth extraction; this can happen as a result of various degrees of infection, decay, and or damage to the tooth down to the root. Dental Implants are titanium rods installed in a patient's jawbone for the adherence of tooth replacements and bridges. Although the procedure sounds fairly simple, each patient case is a little different. The differences can be based on the age, bone density, or injury that has caused the patient to need these devices. Out of these variances in dental experiences, rumors and myths can grow, spread and impact patient trepidation for the performance of the procedure.

The first myth is that installation is a long painful procedural process. This is not the same as a routine teeth cleaning. First of all the implantation process utilizes Nitrous Oxide, local anesthesia, and after care pain medication in order to manage the sensations throughout and thereafter. You will not be left to feel any of the stages of the process from tooth extraction, gum opening, or the dental implant placement.

The second myth is that you may not possess enough natural bone to be an ideal candidate for the procedure. You don't have to worry about that even if you are seeking dental implants as the result of a traumatic facial injury. First, the installation expert will utilize X-ray technology in order to see the existence and strength of the bone in your jaw. Second, he or she will test the strength or place the implant according to where the sturdiest bone is within your mouth for implant placement. Third, you may require a bone graft from your own body or from a donor cadaver. Lastly, there may be a period of rest after installation and before your prosthetics are attached to allow your bone a chance to attach to the titanium rods for added insurance of strength.

The third myth is that your dental implants will not stay in place; the teeth on top will collapse and no teeth can be used there ever. Well, the use of the Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) approved products will eliminate a significant amount of the risk. Your discern selection of a licensed and board certified dental professional will also insure your safety and successful use of the product. Now, the only ways that a dental implant can fail is if you sustain injury or your jawbone continues to deteriorate as you age. The good news is that, if there is enough bone there after such injury or loss then you can try again. They are reasonably priced and can be used in the young, the elderly and the diabetic. The first step is to consult with your dentist about how dental implants can help you smile and eat like you used to do.