Dental implants are designed to last a lifetime when maintained with good oral hygiene and routine dental check-ups. The implant is a titanium screw that is surgically embedded into the jawbone. During the process of osseointegration, the implant and the bone fuse together to serve as an artificial root.
The crown and the abutment (the metal part that serves as the base for the crown) are more susceptible to damage because they are exposed and take active roles in biting and chewing food. A crown usually lasts 15 to 20 years before it needs general wear and tear replacement.
Brushing and flossing twice a day and regular check-ups every six months will extend the lifespan of the implant and the crown.
What Makes the Dental Implant Last So Long?
The dental implant is a titanium or zirconia post that is surgically inserted into the jawbone. The implant and the bone fuse together during the healing process, creating a permanent solution to tooth loss.
Practicing good oral hygiene is essential to the healing process and the acceptance of the implant. In the first 24-48 hours following your dental implant surgery, some things must be avoided to ensure proper healing and ensure the success of the dental implant:
- Smoking (refrain for as long as possible following surgery because smoking inhibits healing)
- Excessive rinsing
- Intense exercise
- Hard or hot foods
- Drinking with a straw
What Are Some Other Factors to Consider?
A few risk factors may cause a dental implant to fail prematurely.
- Diabetes
- Other pre-existing medical conditions, such as cancer
- Poor oral hygiene
- Gum disease
- Smoking
Talk with your dentist about your concerns if any of these factors apply to you. Together you can discuss the risks and develop a plan that best addresses your oral care needs. Being predisposed to one or any of these conditions does not eliminate you as a dental implant procedure candidate.
What Are the Benefits of Dental Implants?
Dental implants are used to replace natural teeth that have been lost due to illness, injury, or trauma. Replacing the lost tooth or teeth with natural-looking and functioning artificial teeth can significantly improve your quality of life and health.
The dental implant, the abutment, and the restoration help:
- Preserve the health of the surrounding bone and gums
- Keep nearby teeth stable
- Keep your jawbone from shrinking due to bone loss
- Restore cosmetic appearance
- Make chewing easier and more comfortable
This procedure also improves the smile’s appearance, restores confidence, and eliminates embarrassment when smiling, talking, or eating.
Without dental implants to replace a missing tooth, you may suffer rapid bone loss, defective speech, and changes to chewing patterns that result in discomfort. This may lead to avoiding certain social situations, and loss of involvement in activities once enjoyed. This potentially lowers your overall quality of life.
Dental implants improve your oral health and improve your quality of life by eliminating the negative effects a missing tooth or teeth have on your health and overall well-being.
If you are interested in learning more about whether dental implants are right for you, call Valley Dental Care today in our office in Aurora (630) 892-2193 or our office in Oswego (630) 551-7000 to arrange your dental implant consultation.
Begin your journey to a healthy and happy smile.