A Teenager's Guide to Braces

You have a missing tooth. Chances are, your dentist has recommended replacing the missing tooth with a dental implant, but you've resisted that idea for some reason. Here's the unfortunate thing: most of the reasons people avoid dental implants are not legitimate. In other words, there are a lot of myths floating around about implants, and they keep a lot of people from having their teeth replaced. Below, take a look at some common, yet invalid reasons people avoid implants.

Invalid Reason #1: Your Implant Will Look Fake

Are you picturing a super-white tooth, or worse yet, one made from metal? Then it's no wonder you don't want a dental implant! Thankfully, the truth is that once you are healed, your dental implant will look identical to a natural tooth. You will only know that tooth is fake because you remember having it inserted into your jaw.

You may have heard that dental implants are made from titanium, which is perhaps why you're envisioning them with a metallic look. Only the part of the implant that is inserted into your jaw bone is made from metal. The crown, which is the visible part of the tooth, is made from porcelain, and the dentist will color that porcelain to match the rest of your teeth. It won't be bright white if the rest of your teeth aren't bright white.

Invalid Reason #2: The Procedure Will Hurt

Getting dental implants would hurt if it were not for modern medicine. Your dentist will make sure your jaw is numb before they start operating, so you won't feel a thing during the procedure. Most dentists also sedate their patients during implant surgery, which means you'll feel loopy and sleepy. 

Of course, there will be some pain as you heal, but this pain is rather minor and can easily be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. 

Invalid Reason #3: The Procedure Is Dangerous

There are some risks involved with any surgery. There's a chance you will get an infection or feel nauseous after the sedative wears off. But infections are easily treated with antibiotics, and nausea will pass. Dental implant surgery is a lot less invasive than most surgical procedures, and since you are awake during the process, it is very safe. It's not risk-free, but it's pretty close. You'll be putting yourself in more danger by not replacing your missing teeth, since that could damage the teeth that remain in the mouth and cause them to become infected, decayed, or misaligned.

Dental implants are almost always a smart choice. If your dentist is recommending one, it is probably for the best.