Every year, the doctors at SF Oral Surgery see hundreds of San Francisco patients to discuss implant dentistry. These patients often come in after having discussed their condition with their general dentist, a conversation with a friend or family member who has told them they should consider dental implants, or simply because of the discomfort and emotional drain their damaged, loose, or missing teeth have become.
During these consultations with our prospective patients, our doctors are often required to debunk some common misconceptions about implant dentistry. We want men and women in San Francisco to be fully educated and know the facts of implant dentistry, so we’ve put together this blog to help set the record straight on some of the most common misconceptions our doctors hear.
1. Common Misconception #1 – Anyone with dentistry experience is qualified to practice implant dentistry.
While it is true that any licensed dentist can legally place dental implants, this does not mean that the quality of the procedure will be adequate. In order to surgically place dental implants properly, your implant dentist should be trained as an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon and recognized by the American Dental Association. Those with these certifications will have 4 additional years beyond dental school in a hospital-based residency program and a year of anesthesia training. They will also have participated in a post-graduate residency program. This additional training and education ensure that they have been thoroughly prepared for implant dentistry.
2. Common Misconception #2 – Dental implants are temporary devices.
Unfortunately, many San Francisco men and women come to their implant dentistry appointment under the assumption that their dental implants will only be temporary and that they’ll have to have them replaced or “updated” within a few years. That couldn’t be further from the truth! Dental implants are permanent and designed to last a lifetime – providing you care for them appropriately.
3. Common Misconception #3 – Dental implants don’t look like your natural teeth.
This is a common misconception our doctors hear from potential implant dentistry patients, but the reality is that dental implants are the most natural-looking dental restoration available, and they truly look just like your natural teeth – only better! Not only are they aesthetically pleasing, but they function just like natural teeth as well. You can eat all the popcorn and chewy candy you want when you choose dental implants!
4. Common Misconception #4 – Dental implant placement is painful.
While having dental implants placed is clearly more extensive than you biannual cleaning with your general dentist in San Francisco, dental implant placement is not a painful process. You may experience some discomfort in the days following your procedure as you recover, but during your procedure, our trained oral surgeons will use a form of oral anesthesia to make you comfortable.
5. Common Misconception #5 – Dental implants require extra care.
As we mentioned above, dental implants are easy to care for and do not require extra care, like many believe. Our doctors recommend dental implants patients care for their new teeth just like they did their old teeth by brushing twice daily, flossing once a day, using antibacterial mouthwash once a day, and visiting your dentist twice a year for cleanings.
Don’t Let Common Misconceptions Keep You from a New Smile & Restored Oral Function!
If you’ve been told other things about implant dentistry that you feel may be wrong, the best thing you can do is call our office in San Francisco and make an appointment with one of our doctors. They will listen to your concerns, answer your questions, and explain the entire procedure during your initial consultation at SF Oral Surgery.
You can reach out to our office today by calling (415) 776-6710!
