Dental implants are a bit of a mystery for those individuals who have never received more than a cavity filling. If you are scheduled to receive dental implants, make sure to understand the truth about the procedure and implants to set yourself up for success.
Unfortunately, sometimes patients who need implants do not proceed with the procedure because of misunderstandings. Fortunately, these myths about modern implants are far from the truth. Common misbeliefs include that implants are too expensive, that patients are forced to adopt lifelong dietary restrictions, that young people cannot get implants, and above all, that artificial teeth are obvious and unattractive.
When the surgery is performed successfully, dental implants match the look and feel of a patient's surrounding teeth. Implants are a great option to restore the smile in regards to both aesthetics and practicality.
Modern dental implants are specifically constructed to look and feel like teeth. Any fears a patient has of an unsightly or large tooth that does not match the other teeth are likely unfounded or are possibly based on an elderly grandparent’s experience with dentures. It is important for patients to note that an implant, which is anchored to the patient's jawbone and holds an artificial tooth, is meant to resemble a real tooth and is usually indistinguishable from the rest of the teeth in the patient’s mouth.
There is a period during which the patient has to adopt a diet of soft foods, but this is generally restricted to the first few days after the implants are placed. Depending on the patient’s history, the dentist should collaborate with the patient to identify whether certain foods need to be avoided for a longer period. Generally, after successful implant surgery and a short period on a softer diet, patients are able to eat their favorite foods without issue.
It is possible for a patient to develop the idea that only older individuals need artificial teeth, which may bring to mind dentures or bridges in the elderly. This impression can, unfortunately, delay a younger person consulting with a qualified provider about receiving an implant. Implants can be used for patients who are older than the age of 20 who need to fill the space left by a missing tooth.
Depending on the patient’s unique case, dental insurance may pay for some or all of the procedure. Additionally, the patient can be encouraged to know that dental implants are a good investment that can last for over a decade if cared for properly.
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Dental Implants in Kennewick, WA
While it is up to the dentist as to whether a specific patient needs dental implants, it is ultimately the patient’s choice to proceed with the procedure. When there is a trusted practitioner guiding important dental decisions, the patient can rest assured that dental implants are a time-tested, reliable solution to missing teeth.
Request an appointment or call Gledhill Dental at 509-800-8410 for an appointment in our Kennewick office.
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