Debunking 2 Myths About Dental Implants
Many people see a missing tooth as a major dental problem that needs correcting. Not only is it a cosmetic issue that can cause embarrassment, but a missing tooth can cause problems with shifting teeth and deteriorating jawbone. A dental implant is a great way to fix a missing tooth, but there are myths associated with the procedure that may dissuade you from getting it done. Here is what you need to know about these two myths regarding dental implants.
Myth 1: Your Smile Won't Be Fixed for Several Months
The dental implant installation process involves inserting a titanium post into your jawbone. It will take a couple months for the post to fully integrate with the bone, giving the implant the stability it needs to be used like a real tooth. It is not until that happens that the dentist installs the permanent crown on the tooth.
The process may take a while, but you will not have to live with a gap in your teeth that entire time. Your dentist will actually place a temporary crown on your dental implant. It will be good enough to make your smile look complete while the implant integrates with the jawbone. No need to worry about others noticing you have a missing tooth during the process.
Myth 2: Dental Insurance Doesn't Cover Dental Implants
Getting a dental implant is an expensive procedure, but there is a misconception that dental insurance won't cover any of the costs associated with it. This is not completely true, since there are dental insurance providers that will pay for part of the procedure. You won't have the procedure be 100% covered, but it will ease the financial burden associated with it.
You'll want to check with your dental insurance provider to find out what they do and do not cover. For instance, they could pay for your surgery and not your crown. Insurance may only cover a specific percentage of all associated costs, or have a limit on how many implants it will help pay for in a year. Always check your policy to make sure you know what is covered.
Now that you know the truth behind these two myths, it may have cleared up some key misconceptions that have been preventing you from getting the procedure done. If you feel that you are ready, schedule a consultation with a dentist. They can walk you through what the procedure will involve, perform an inspection to see if you are a good candidate and answer any questions you may have.
Share