Two Dental Implant Myths That Could Be Hurting Your Smile

One of the best ways to replace missing or damaged teeth is to get dental implants. They're generally sturdy and work just like regular teeth, since they are implanted directly into the jaw bone. Unfortunately, the people who can benefit the most from these appliances are often put off from getting them because of things they may have heard about the procedure or implants. Here's the truth about two myths associated with dental implants to help alleviate your concern about getting these false teeth.

Myth - People with Uncontrolled Diabetes Can't Get Implants

In the past, people with diabetes could only get dental implants if the disease was controlled (i.e. steady blood sugar levels). Diabetes has a negative impact on many of the body's systems, and it was believed that uncontrolled diabetes increased the risk of the dental implants failing and the patient developing complications.

However, recent studies indicate that cosmetic dentists can safely put implants in people who have uncontrolled diabetes. One study that followed 117 people found that the implant survival rate was about the same for people with poorly controlled diabetes as it was for people who were managing the disease and those who weren't diabetic at all. The primary difference between the groups is that it took longer for the implant site to heal in the people with poorly controlled diabetes.

If you have diabetes that is not well-controlled, you can still get dental implants. Be aware, though, that you may need to take additional steps to ensure that the procedure is a success.

Myth – Dental Implants Can Cause Neurological Problems

Another myth that has cropped up over the years is dental implants can cause neurological problems, such as migraines. Part of this may be due to well-known people going public with their implant-related struggles. For instance, Dick van Dyke talked about experiencing headaches, fatigue, and insomnia after having the procedure done.

Currently, there isn't any clinical research supporting a direct connection between dental implants and neurological issues. That isn't to say people don't develop some problems after getting dental implants. However, these complications typically occur because of something that went awry during the process and not the implants themselves.

For instance, people with metal allergies may have an adverse reaction to the titanium post, leading to headaches. Another thing that occasionally happens is that the nerves that run through the jaw are sometimes damaged during surgery, which may result in neurological problems such as trigeminal neuralgia.

The incidence of these types of complications developing after getting dental implants is very low, though. The success rate of this procedure is around 98 percent. You can increase the chances of success and avoid possible complications by working with an experienced cosmetic dentist.

For more information, contact Oral Surgery Associates Inc or a similar organization.


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