
Do you want to have oral implants fitted, but have heard that they will fall out soon after fitting?
Here, 5 myths about oral implants are challenged to help you separate the truth from the nonsense about this procedure. Enjoy!
Myth 1- the fitting is uncomfortable
In short, having dental implants Melbourne fitted should not be uncomfortable.
The process itself will occur under a numbing agent, so while your dental team is fitting the implant, there should only be a sensation of pressure.
Once at home, there should not be any extensive discomfort. Any sensations that you feel will normally be manageable using over-the-counter pain relief such as paracetamol. Do not use ibuprofen or aspirin unless directed by a doctor, as these can thin the blood and increase the risk of bruising.
Myth 2- they are too expensive for most people to afford
This is a common myth about oral implants.
Many everyday people worry that they will need to have excessive amounts of money to afford implants when, in reality, all they need to do is seek out a dental team that can offer financing options.
Most dental surgeries that offer oral implants are also able to offer either dental plans or financing options to help you spread the cost of the implants into affordable monthly payments. This is likely to be subject to a credit check, so it is always best to shop around!
Myth 3- they will inevitably become infected
Tooth implants rarely become infected, especially if the aftercare advice is adhered to.
To prevent your implants from becoming infected, aim to keep a newly fitted implant clean by using saltwater to remove debris from the implant site; this will prevent unnecessary brushing that can aggravate the gum line of a newly fitted implant.
But, if you notice signs of infection, including abnormal swelling, discomfort, discolouration, bleeding, feeling ill or developing a fever, you should seek emergency medical attention.
Myth 4- they don’t last very long
Provided that they were fitted by a competent dentist who was trained in fitting oral implants, longevity should not be an issue. The average oral implant should easily last up to and over 15 years.
However, some lifestyle choices can promote the better longevity of the implants. Good oral hygiene is a given, as is attending dental check-ups every 6 months, but refraining from smoking cigarettes and consuming alcohol can also be beneficial to the lifespan of your implants.
Why? Because both of these habits increase the chances of you developing oral cancer and can also expose your gums to dangerous chemicals which can cause gum disease.
Myth 5- they look fake
Quite the contrary!
Many people who have oral implants request that their prosthetic teeth that are fitted blend in seamlessly with their other natural teeth, in colour and transparency of the enamel.
But, of course, if you are having an entire set of dentures fitted with the help of oral implants, then you may want to get a Hollywood level smile. The finish, aesthetically, is entirely within your hands!
DISCLAIMER
Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.