Over the years, dental implant technology and methods have improved tremendously. Although they are an excellent option for anyone who has lost one or more teeth, there are still several myths surrounding the efficacy and dental implants.
To make an appointment with Dr. Madison for dental implants, please call 310-553-2940 or fill out the form on this page.
2. Dental Implant treatment is not very successful - When properly performed and when the case is appropriately planned out, dental implants have an average success rate of 95% in the upper jaw and 98% in the lower jaw, which makes dental implant treatments one of the most successful dental (and medical in general) treatments available to patients.
3. Dental Implants are a relatively new procedure - Dental implant therapy was innovated in the late 1960's and successfully performed since that time. Much advancement has been made over the past 45+ years, consequently resulting in making dental implants a relatively common and popular treatment option.
4. Dental implants take a long time to complete - Most implants can be completed in less than three months time. In some cases, the implant and the restoration can be completed in just a single visit to the doctor.
5. Dental Implants need a lot of care and attention - Dental implants do not need any extra care; they just need brushing and flossing, exactly like the patients' regular teeth. Implants do not decay (no cavities) but can get gum disease if you do not maintain proper oral hygiene.
6. Dental implants do not work in older patients - Dental implants are just as successful in older patients as they are in younger ones.
7. Dental implants cost a lot more than dental bridges - While the initial upfront expense may be just a bit more for a dental implant, the long-term savings more than make up for it. A bridge usually needs to be replaced every 10 years, whereas an implant is a life-long restoration.
8. Any dentist can place dental implants - Dental implants are a very technique-sensitive procedure that requires years of training and experience to perfect. Only periodontists and oral surgeons get dental implant training during their schooling; they are the ONLY dental specialists that have extensive surgical training that prepares them to deal with potential complications or difficult cases.
9. All dental implants are the same - Just like with any other product, there are various dental implant manufacturers. However, only a few brands are reputable and have widely documented success. Other brands do not have documented success cases and may be imported from countries that do not impose strict quality control in an effort to cut on the cost. Patients need to make sure that their implant specialist only places the highest quality implant available.
10. You have to replace every missing tooth with dental implants - If you are missing a number of teeth, you do not necessarily need to replace every single one with a dental implant. Sometimes, dental implants can be spaced apart so that when they are restored they can replace multiple teeth. For example, in certain cases, two implants can be used to replace four missing teeth.
If you need dental implants, please schedule an appointment with Dr. Madison by calling (310)553-2940 or filling out the form on this page.
If you have any other questions or comments regarding this article, please contact us at (310) 553-2940 or by email at periodontics@earthlink.net.
Dr. Miles Madison, D.D.S., is an award-winning periodontist in Beverly Hills, California.
