Dental implants are one of the most valuable options for replacing missing teeth, but a few popular misconceptions can cause hesitancy in dental patients who would otherwise benefit from implants. This guide will explain the truth behind four common dental implant myths.

Myth 1: Dental Implant Surgery is Painful

Inserting a metal implant into your jawbone does sound painful, but you won't feel anything more than mild discomfort during this process. Oral surgeons use local anesthesia to completely numb the gums and jaw before the first incision is even made in the gums. Your dentist will also provide pain medicine to help manage pain while you are healing afterward.

Myth 2: Dental Implants are Prone to Staining

No one wants a permanent tooth replacement that is difficult to take care of. Fortunately, dental implant crowns are made of stain-resistant materials. Porcelain and ceramic crowns will stain even more slowly than natural teeth.

One exception where staining may occur is when abrasions develop on the crown due to brushing too hard or using abrasive toothpaste. If you use a soft bristle toothbrush and continue your normal dental hygiene routine, your implants will remain indistinguishable from your natural teeth.

Myth 3: Dentures Provide the Same Benefits as Dental Implants

Both dentures and dental implants can fill gaps caused by missing teeth, but they actually function quite differently. Dental implants stimulate the jawbone, but dentures do not interact with the jawbone at all since they rest on top of the gums. Without jawbone stimulation, bone tissue will degrade over time. This leads to sinking in the face around the mouth and increases the risk of losing more teeth.

Dentures also fall short of dental implants in the strength category. Dentures can easily be damaged or dislodged when you eat certain hard or sticky foods. People with dental implants don't have to think twice before they take a bite.

Myth 4: Dental Implants Must be Installed Quickly After Tooth Loss

Dental implants are still an option, even if it's been months or years since you lost a tooth. The deciding factor for implant eligibility isn't the age of the lost tooth, but the health of the underlying jawbone. Furthermore, oral surgeons can rebuild the jawbone with bone grafting or use solutions like mini dental implants for dental patients with more advanced jawbone loss.

Understanding the facts about dental implants makes it clear why they are so highly regarded by dental professionals. Talk to your dentist about dental implants to get the facts and decide if implants are right for you.