How Long Do Dental Implants Last?
If you have cracked or chipped teeth, or are missing teeth altogether, you have likely been told that you need a long-term tooth replacement. Dental implants are a natural-looking tooth replacement, helping you smile, talk, and eat comfortably. But, how long do they offer that relief? How long do dental implants last?
This blog explains how long dental implants last, the dental implant procedure, and what you can do to extend the life of your implants. Keep reading to learn how you can have your dental implants for years to come.
For the long-term success of your dental implants, you should limit your intake of sugary foods like candy and soda. Sugar is known to decay teeth, causing cavities and periodontitis, also known as gum disease. While you cannot necessarily develop cavities on your implants, you can certainly have periodontitis.
Periodontitis can cause tooth decay below the gums, which may loosen an implant and cause other negative medical conditions like bone loss. You must limit your sugary foods intake to prevent periodontitis and protect your implants over the long term.
The Dental Implant Procedure
First, we briefly explain the dental implant process to help you better understand your dental implants:- Tooth extraction: First, the dentist will remove the natural tooth that has been cracked or damaged beyond repair. Once the tooth is removed, you will need to wait several weeks for the area to heal. If you have a missing tooth, you can skip this step.
- Bone grafting (optional): If your jaw has experienced bone loss, you must undergo bone grafting. Bone quality is incredibly important for an implant because it provides a solid foundation for your implant.
- Post placement: After your mouth has completely healed, the dentist will place a tiny titanium screw below the gum line. The titanium post will act as an artificial root, holding the implant in place. During the healing process, the surrounding bone will bond with the post.
Dental Implant Failure: Everything You Need To Know
Dental implants begin to fail after approximately 5 to 10 years of use. However, it is worth noting that the estimate applies to the tooth replacement or bridge portion. The actual dental implant (the post inserted below the gum line) is a permanent solution that will last for many years when properly cared for.How To Make Your Dental Implants Last Longer
You can take several precautions to help prevent dental implant failure and extend the life of your dental implants. The best part is that these practices benefit your oral and overall health.Practice Good Oral Hygiene
Much like your natural teeth, you must take proper care of your dental implants. Diligent dental care is especially important for implants because they have a higher risk of gum disease. Great oral hygiene can keep your teeth and gums healthy. You need to brush your teeth twice a day to help remove any bacteria from your dental implant. Frequent flossing will also remove any bacteria that can become stuck between your dental implant and the surrounding teeth. It will also help remove any bacteria from the gum tissue surrounding the implants.Limit Your Intake Of Sugary Foods
For the long-term success of your dental implants, you should limit your intake of sugary foods like candy and soda. Sugar is known to decay teeth, causing cavities and periodontitis, also known as gum disease. While you cannot necessarily develop cavities on your implants, you can certainly have periodontitis.
Periodontitis can cause tooth decay below the gums, which may loosen an implant and cause other negative medical conditions like bone loss. You must limit your sugary foods intake to prevent periodontitis and protect your implants over the long term.
