We live in an age of limitless access to information. 
However, that doesn’t mean that everything we read or hear is correct. Myths and misconceptions exist about every topic, including dental implants.
Dr. Lee Fitzgerald is a source you can trust. He provides comprehensive implant dentistry at Fitzgerald Dental Implant Center in Plano/North Dallas. Today, the doctor debunks some common myths about dental implants.
Myth: Dental implant surgery must be performed in a hospital.
Reality: Dr. Fitzgerald performs all aspects of implant dentistry, including the surgery to place the implant posts, in our Plano dental office. No hospital stay is required.
Myth: People in their “senior” years are too old for dental implants.
Reality: Almost anyone with missing teeth or an ill-fitting denture is a candidate for implant dentistry. Age is not a factor, with the exception of children whose mouths are still developing. Smokers and those with chronic health conditions, such as diabetes, may experience slower healing following implant surgery. However, these habits/conditions don’t eliminate these individuals as implant dentistry candidates.
Myth: Dental implants haven’t been around very long. They’re not a proven solution.
Reality: Implant dentistry research began in the 1950s, and the first dental implant was placed in 1965. Since that time, millions of people around the world have proven the durability and longevity of dental implants. Studies show that dental implants have a 95 to 98% success rate. They may last a lifetime with proper care.
Myth: The body often rejects dental implants.
Reality: The body doesn’t recognize the titanium implant post as a foreign object, so it doesn’t reject it as it might donor tissue (heart, lungs, kidney) implanted in the body. The jawbone accepts the implant post and grows very tightly around it to provide a stable foundation for one or more replacement teeth.
If you have questions or encounter information that doesn’t sound quite right, give us a call. Dr. Fitzgerald and our team are happy to provide you with accurate information about dental implants and all facets of implant dentistry.
While you’re at it, schedule a consultation with Dr. Fitzgerald to learn how you can improve your smile and your life with state-of-the-art dental implants.