Dental implants are a remarkably powerful option for tooth replacement. By affixing directly to the jaw, dental implants have a level of stability and durability that dentures and bridges just don’t.
However, the fact that dental implants are surgically implanted in the jaw can make some people nervous about getting them. If that’s you, shouldn’t let concerns about the dental implant procedure get in the way of the beautiful smile you deserve. Here’s why there isn’t anything to worry about.
High Success Rate
First of all, it’s worth noting that dental implants are remarkably reliable. Despite the fact that getting them involves surgery, 95% of dental implants last for over 20 years with a standard level of maintenance. The fact is that if you take even reasonably good care of your dental implants, you don’t have to worry very much about negative consequences.
Powerful Anesthesia
Some people are also intimidated by the surgery itself. After all, some people feel like dentists can be a little insensitive to the pain of patients. Fortunately, that reputation is unearned; dentists think all the time about the best ways to help patients feel comfortable during their visits.
Dentists begin any oral surgery with a powerful local anesthetic, ensuring that you won’t be able to feel your mouth at all during any moment of the procedure. They’ll be happy to adjust the dosage for you so that you can be completely at ease during the surgery.
Simple Aftercare
Aftercare is also something that tends to give patients pause, especially if they’ve just had to deal with recovering from a tooth extraction. Fortunately, dental implant aftercare tends to be easier.
You should plan to take maybe one or two days off of work and refrain from rigorous exercise for a few days after the surgery. That said, you shouldn’t have to deal with all that much discomfort. You should be able to rely on over-the-counter pain medication, but if you’re getting several dental implants placed your doctor may also be willing to prescribe prescription painkillers for you.
Ultimately, dental implants are nothing to be scared of. Keep in mind that you need to keep them clean and take it easy, but if you’re looking for a good tooth replacement option, it’s hard to think of a better way to go.
About the Author
Dr. Carole Emanuel began her career as a dental assistant before becoming a dentist herself— 25 years later, there’s still nothing she loves more than working hard to make patients smile! Dr. Emanuel received her doctorate from the Indiana University School of Dentistry, and has remained committed to continuing her education since. She has also earned Fellowship in the International Congress of Oral Implantologists and the Academy of General Dentistry.
If you have any questions about getting dental implants, she can be reached at her website or by phone at (303) 986-0090.