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Dental Implants: Myths vs. Facts

Team Dental Implants

There are many misconceptions that patients have about dental implants. If you have badly decayed or missing teeth, dental implants can be an excellent option for restoring the appearance and function of your teeth. Here are four common dental implants myths that patients have and some information to correct it.


Myth #1: Dental Implants are Expensive


Some patients believe that dental implants are too expensive to be a procedure that’s within their reach and may opt to simply have a tooth extraction and/or dentures instead. It is true that the initial cost of dental implants is higher than a pair of dentures or a dental bridge. However, dental implants are considered a permanent restoration. You won’t have to replace an implant every 10 or 15 years, which is the lifespan you can expect for some other restorations.


Myth #2: Quick Procedure


Placing dental implants often takes several different appointments over the course of several months. First, your dentist will evaluate you to see if a dental implant is a good option. If you have an existing tooth, your dentist may take an impression of your tooth before it’s pulled to create a perfect crown. 

You may need a bone graft. After the implant is placed, you will need to wait until it heals, perhaps over the course of several months, before the abutment and crown. The entire process takes time and cannot be completed in a single day.


Myth #3: Everyone’s a Candidate


Not every patient is eligible for dental implants. There needs to be enough healthy jawbone material available at the location of the implant for it to work. Sometimes a bone graft procedure can restore the health of the bone enough to place a dental implant successfully. In other cases, many dental implants, which require less healthy bone, can be utilized. Your dentist will need to evaluate your specific case to see if you are a good candidate for a dental implant.


Myth #4: Insurance Will Cover It


Not all dental insurance plans cover dental implants. While the likelihood that your plan may pay for dental implants has increased over the last few years, many plans still consider it a luxury or cosmetic procedure. If your insurance will cover dental implants, it might only pay for a small portion of the procedure's overall cost. The total cost of getting a dental implant could be more than your annual maximum. It is best to review specific coverage details directly with your dental insurance provider or to carefully review your plan documents to see how your plan covers dental implants.


Ready to Get Started?


Dental implants are the go-to choice for many patients experiencing tooth loss. Call Smile Haus at 818-348-6068 to schedule an appointment and discuss your dental health concerns with Dr. Hotait. We have experienced dentists who can provide the high-quality care you deserve.