What Factors Contribute the the Long-Term Success of Dental Implants?

Dental implants have been around for over a half century, but their use has become more widespread as this form of tooth replacement has become much more commonplace. However, as with anything worth having, there are certain things you can do that will either contribute to long-term success or promote dental implant failure.

DO:

Brush at least twice each day with a fluoridated tooth paste.

Floss daily to remove food particles your tooth brush didn’t reach and to stimulate gum tissue.

Rinse with an anti-bacterial rinse if prone to gingivitis or as advised by your dentist.

Visit your dentist every six months for a thorough cleaning and exam. This not only promotes dental wellness, but keeps your teeth looking their best.

DON’T:

Smoke or use tobacco in any form, use illicit drugs or drink alcohol in excess.

Enjoying good overall health also promotes dental health. This means drinking water in lieu of sugary soda or sports drinks, regular exercise, adequate sleep and controlling the things that can interfere with a healthy body like undue stress.

The dental implant procedure involves a long term commitment. But the reward has many advantages. You are able to replace one or more teeth lost to trauma, decay, or disease; you will be able to once again eat all the foods you love; you will be able to speak clearly and with confidence; and you will be able to smile broadly because you are no longer concerned with concealing your mouth due to missing teeth.

Your implant dentist needs to qualify you as a candidate for this procedure. To do so, your medical history will be reviewed, an extensive dental exam will be completed including dental x-rays, and a thorough explanation of what this process entails will be outlined.

Your commitment to keeping the implant area as clean as possible is needed to prevent infection, a leading cause of implant failure. Smoking and tobacco use are highly discouraged as these are other contributors to implant disappointment.

Once the implant area has healed and your dentist is ready to place the final restoration, you will realize everything was worth it as your great smile has been restored, and you can do all the things you once enjoyed before tooth loss occurred. Regular follow up with your dentist will keep your implant healthy and functioning correctly for life.

Contact our office to discuss your tooth replacement options today!