Dental implants are medical devices used to replace natural teeth. A small post made from titanium is embedded in the jawbone, and once the bone fuses around the post, a crown is attached to completely restore that portion of your smile. Many patients receive multiple implants for a complete restoration. There are several benefits to implants, but many people associate them with negative circumstances. To help you sort fact from fiction, consider the following misconceptions. 

What Are Some Common Dental Implant Myths?

1. They're Only for Older People

Dentures are often associated with those in their golden years, but implants are not the same. Implants are secured into your gums through a minimally invasive procedure and are never taken out of the mouth. Instead, they provide individuals who are missing teeth or experiencing severe decay with long-lasting tooth replacement. They're a viable solution for most adults, no matter what their age is.

2. The Surgery Is Painful

Oral surgery is required to secure implants in the jawbone, but it's not going to cause debilitating pain. Your dentist will use a combination of sedation, numbing, and specialized surgical techniques to help improve comfort levels, reduce the risk of complications, and encourage healthy healing. While you may feel some discomfort during recovery, this can be overcome with over-the-counter pain medications and plenty of rest. 

3. They're Purely Cosmetic 

Many people assume dental implants are used only to fix cosmetic issues. While they do offer benefits for those looking to improve the aesthetics of their smile, implants do much more than that. 

In fact, the benefits extend into your gums and jawbone. The implant acts as a replica of the tooth's full structure, which places necessary stress on the jawbone and reduces the risk of bone loss. 

4. They're High Maintenance

Following the procedure, implants are cared for in the same manner as natural teeth. Many people assume that they require special care, but in reality, all you need to do is brush and floss like you normally would. You should still see your dentist regularly, but aside from these routine aspects, implants don't require any special maintenance. 

5. The Results Look Fake

The misconception that dental implants make your teeth look fake is far from true. Implants are created using tooth-colored materials. They're formed to match the shape and shade of your natural teeth and blend into a full smile seamlessly. In fact, it would be quite difficult for someone to recognize implants in your mouth unless you told them they were there. 

For a beautiful smile and excellent oral care, turn to Jim S. Caudill, DMD, PSC, in Hazard, KY. Dr. Caudill has been offering top-quality dental and oral hygiene services to patients throughout Perry County since 1975. He understands the importance of maintaining a beautiful smile, which is why he offers dental implants, cosmetic procedures, orthodontic services, general dentistry, and more. To learn more about Dr. Caudil's practice, visit his website. Call (606) 436-3432 to schedule an appointment today.