Dental implants are the best tooth-replacement option currently available. In fact, they’re one of the greatest advances in dentistry over the last 40 years.
Unlike conventional dentures, an implant is “screwed” into the jawbone and fuses with it through a process called osseointegration, achieving a firm, long-lasting fixation.
A ceramic prosthesis designed to mimic the esthetics and physical properties of natural tooth enamel is placed over this “artificial root.”
However, a lack of information gives rise to myths and misconceptions that can confuse people who need to replace their teeth. That’s why we’ve compiled some of the most widespread myths that often prompt questions from our patients:
- They’re only for older people
Dental implants are suitable for adults of all ages, not just seniors. As a general rule, candidacy begins after skeletal growth has finished typically 21+ for men and 18+ for women.
Part of this myth stems from the fact that it’s increasingly common for older adults to receive full-mouth implants, allowing them to forget about loose dentures and live perfectly normal lives.
- The procedure is painful
Dental implants don’t hurt during placement, nor throughout the postoperative period, nor during daily use when biting and chewing.
Placement is done under local anesthesia or, if preferred, IV sedation, so discomfort is minimal.
Recovery is typically very manageable when you follow your periodontist’s instructions; they may also recommend pain relievers to ease any temporary discomfort.
- They don’t look or feel natural
Implants look and feel like natural teeth. Because they fuse to bone, they remain permanently in place, supporting natural function.
This eliminates the need for removable dentures and messy adhesives.
Another benefit: they improve speech as a fixed solution, they let you speak without worrying that your prosthesis will move.
They also provide excellent stability for chewing. Removable dentures can shift with solid foods, causing discomfort when eating.
- They require a lot of special care
Implants need care very similar to natural teeth. It’s essential to prevent plaque buildup, since it can cause peri-implant diseases.
That’s why good oral hygiene and regular visits with your periodontist or implantologist are fundamental for long-term maintenance.
- They’re too expensive
An implant may seem costly, but consider its long service life. With optimal care, implants can last a lifetime.
By comparison, a bridge generally lasts fewer years and depends on the health of the supporting teeth. Over time, implants are often the better investment.
- Any dentist can place them
No not every dentist is qualified to place implants.
The clinician must be extensively trained in oral surgery and soft-/hard-tissue management, and have solid foundations in implant prosthetics.
They must also be able to interpret radiologic studies and develop an appropriate treatment plan.
Periodontists are trained across all these areas and are therefore especially well-qualified to place implants.
- All implants are the same
Not all implants are identical or perform the same way. They differ in short- and long-term reliability.
Most are made of titanium, but differences in surface treatment (physical and chemical) and the reliability of prosthetic components make a real impact.
Choose an implant system backed by robust long-term research, so you know within clinical standards that it offers a high long-term success rate.
Purpose of this publication: to dispel misconceptions. As noted, not all dentists are equally trained to place implants, nor are all implants the same. The success of your treatment depends on choosing a specialist and scientifically supported materials. This text is general in nature. To ensure high-quality care, a professional consultation is essential.
Get clear, professional information about dental implants. Book an evaluation appointment. Contact us via WhatsApp, phone call, or through our form.
