4 Myths About Dental Implants

Dental implants are an incredibly popular dental procedure, with around half a million people in the U.S. alone getting at least one implant each year. Modern dental implants can be a solution for one or multiple missing teeth, and offer benefits you can’t get with older tooth replacement methods. However, there are many myths circulating about the dental implant procedure, so we’re here to help clear the air. Let’s talk about four of the most common misconceptions we hear about dental implants, including the truth about each one. 

Myth #1: Dental Implants are Painful

Fact: Most patients experience little to no pain during the dental implant procedure, and only minor discomfort during the recovery period. Advances in anesthesia have made even complex dental procedures much more comfortable for patients. Along with an effective combination of anesthesia techniques, your oral surgeon will also provide instructions for pain control after you go home, including a prescription for pain-killers if more than minor discomfort is experienced.

Myth #2: Dental Implants are Temporary

Fact: This one is actually half false. A full dental implant includes a metal post implanted into the patient’s jawbone, then capped with a dental crown. As long as the metal post properly integrates with the patient’s existing bone tissue, it will likely last throughout the patient’s lifetime. The crown on top, however, will need to be replaced every 10-15 years. The actual length of time the crown will last depends on how well the patient cares for it, including daily home care and routine dental visits.

Myth #3: Dental Implants Do Not Look Natural

Fact: We’ve all met someone with a replacement tooth that looks a bit off. It could be the size, it could be the color, or it could be the shape…but if all three of the elements aren’t in perfect balance with the patient’s existing teeth, then things just look odd. Modern oral surgeons take all three elements into account when creating the replacement crown, so you won’t have to worry about the implant being noticeable or awkward.

Myth #4: Dental Implants are a One-Visit Procedure

Fact: Dental implants can take weeks, months, or even more than a year from start to finish, depending on the patient’s specific dental needs. For patients who require bone grafts to build up jaw bone tissue, the entire procedure will take much longer than a patient who does not require this prep work. Even in the best case scenario, dental implants will require a minimum of three visits - a consultation and diagnostic workup, implantation of the metal post, and placement of the new crown. If there is prep work required or complications involved, then more visits should be expected.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Implants

Does insurance cover dental implants?

Many times dental implants are considered a cosmetic procedure thus not covered under insurance. However plans could also have an implant provision- generally up to 50% of the cost of the implant. Keep in mind that you always have a yearly cap on dental care spending, and depending on what that is, your out of pocket expenses will differ. Always check with your insurance policy administrator or HR representative for your specific coverage. Also, if you contribute to an FSA or HSA account, you may be able to use those funds to cover the dental implant procedure.

Can you get a temporary tooth while waiting for an implant?

Your oral surgeon will place a healing cap on top of the implant while the metal post integrates with the bone tissue. This is not a permanent solution so after the post is fully integrated, the healing cap will be removed and the final crown will be placed by your dentist.

Dental Implants in the North Seattle Metro

Dental implants are a great-looking option for replacing missing teeth anywhere in the mouth, are long-lasting, and don’t require the extra care or maintenance that a bridge or other traditional tooth replacements require. Altitude Dental offers high-quality dental solutions in a warm, welcoming environment, including implant-supported crowns, bridges and dentures. If you are missing teeth and want to know more about your options, call us at 425-775-3446 or request an appointment online to schedule a consultation today.