Are you missing one, several, or most of your teeth? Dental implants can provide you with the most comprehensive solution for restoring your pearly whites. Not only do they renew your smile, but they’ll also help preserve your facial structure for many years to come. But just how long can you expect them to last? Keep reading to learn how dental implants work and tips on how to make the most of your brand-new teeth!
How Do Dental Implants Work?
Traditional restorations like dentures and bridges are typically supported by your gums or remaining healthy teeth. However, due to a lack of stimulation in the jawbone from tooth loss, your mouth will gradually begin to change over time. This often means your restorations will lose their fit, requiring you to need replacements to improve the health and comfort of your smile.
Dental implants, on the other hand, are directly anchored to your jawbone via titanium posts. Once they’ve integrated with your bone tissue, they’ll serve as your new permanent roots, providing a more stable and lifelike foundation for your new teeth. Additionally, they’ll stimulate the jawbone, preventing it from deteriorating and preserving a more youthful facial shape.
How Long Will Dental Implants Last?
Since dental implants restore missing teeth from the roots up, they’ll last much longer than traditional restorations. They will be constructed out of biocompatible materials that are designed to effectively fuse with the jawbone for a more natural-like foundation. Depending on how well you take care of your new smile, you can easily expect these titanium posts to go anywhere between several decades to a lifetime!
Tips for Preserving Your Dental Implants
Although dental implants typically have a success rate of over 95%, they will only work as long as you practice solid preventive methods. Some factors can cause them to fail over time, such as poor oral hygiene, bad chewing habits, gum disease, and using tobacco. To prevent these complications and reduce your risks, here are a few crucial tips for preserving your restorations:
- Brush, floss, and rinse with mouthwash frequently (especially after eating)
- Avoid bad oral habits, such as chewing on ice, using teeth as tools, and smoking
- Schedule regular visits with your dentist for checkups and cleanings
By maintaining your dental implants with a solid oral hygiene routine, you’ll be likely to enjoy your renewed smile for the rest of your life! Speak with your dentist if you’re interested, and they’ll be glad to determine if this treatment is best for you.
About the Author
Dr. Rodney L. Allen received his dental degree from the Baylor College of Dentistry and has well over two decades of experience under his belt. He also regularly pursues continuing education courses to expand his skills and expertise. He provides a wide variety of high-quality and all-inclusive services, including dental implants. If you’d like to schedule a consultation, visit his website or call 720-851-6784.