Whether it be due to anxiety, poor oral hygiene, or something totally beyond your control, you may have to replace missing teeth and feel self-conscious about it. Dental implants are the best treatment for this, but your embarrassment could be stopping you from getting started.
Continue reading to discover three common concerns about dental implants that might make you feel embarrassed, and why they should be put to rest.
1. My Smile Looks Really Bad
A common concern is that when you open your mouth, your dentist might react in shock or laughter. There is a strong aversion to being judged by others.
This fear of rejection from a medical professional is ingrained in many people, possibly stemming from bad past experiences and can be much more devastating when it comes from someone you trust, like your dentist. Some people dislike the feeling so much that they avoid the dentist office entirely.
The truth is, you are not the worst case your dentist has seen, and they will be professional about your treatment. Your dentist has seen more than you can imagine by the time they leave dental school, not to mention in the time they’ve been practicing!
Know that whatever your dentist has to say to you, they do so because they care. Their recommendations do not come from a place of judgment but from empathy. Your dentist wants you to succeed, so getting a dental implant from them shouldn’t cause fear.
2. I’m Afraid of Dental Implant Surgery
Fear of the unknown can strike anyone, especially if it involves surgery. But fear not, there are several steps you can take to alleviate this fear.
First, talk to your dentist about your apprehension. They may be able to offer you some sedation treatment like nitrous oxide to calm your nerves. Sedation dentistry can make your dental implant surgery a walk in the park.
Another option is talking out the treatment with your dentist. Talk to them about other successful surgeries they’ve performed and what technology they use. Some patients find that the more they know about how the treatment is performed, the less frightening it seems.
3. Replacing A Tooth Makes Me Feel Old
Aging and the fear of it is something that human beings have struggled with since the dawn of civilization. It’s only natural to think about tooth loss in that light. However, dental implants are such a versatile treatment that they can be done for almost anyone!
You don’t have to be old to lose teeth. It happens for many reasons: Physical altercations, sports accidents, car wrecks, even slipping in the bathtub. Just because you’ve lost a tooth doesn’t mean you’ve lost your youth.
Dental implants are nothing to be ashamed of. They are a practical and complete solution to tooth loss of all types. They help you maintain bone density in your jaw and eat whatever you want while looking good in the process. Don’t let doubt or embarrassment keep you from your smile goals.
About the Author
Dr. Jay R. Lopez is devoted to offering personalized treatment to all his patients. He and his team at Jay R. Lopez, DDS, PC pride themselves on their relaxed and comfortable environment where their patients can receive the care they need free from judgment. Dr. Lopez earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery from the University of Colorado Health Science Center School of Dentistry and has since received extensive training in restorative, cosmetic, and reconstructive dentistry. To schedule a dental implant consultation, call (520) 886-8090 or visit the website to explore other services.