Since their introduction in the 1960s, dental implants have quickly gained favor as a simple, effective, and long-lasting treatment for missing teeth and tooth replacement. With proper care, they can last for decades, giving you a complete smile for years to come. But what factors influence the long-term success of dental implants? How can you know how long your dental implants will last – and what can you do to maximize their lifespan?
There are a number of biological factors that can influence the long-term success of dental implants, and one of these is bone quality. One of the major factors that make dental implants such an effective treatment is their unique quality of osseointegration, which means that the implant literally fuses with the jawbone around it – but for this to work, there needs to be adequate bone material around the implant. In some cases, bone grafts can help to provide supplemental bone material to support the implant, so we may recommend a preliminary procedure like this before placing implants.
Another potential problem is gum disease. Gum disease causes inflammation, and if this is present when we place implants, it can spread to the tissue around the implant and disrupt the healing process. We’ll perform a thorough examination and treat any forms of periodontal disease before moving on to place any implants.
Smoking can also cause major problems for implants. Patients who smoke are at a greater risk of implant failure than those who don’t, so you’ll need to refrain from smoking for at least as long as it takes to heal from the surgery. Ideally, though, it’s best to quit for good after receiving implants – and we’re more than happy to connect you with resources to help you quit.
Once you do get your implants, its critical to keep them clean just like you would your regular teeth. Brushing and flossing them daily will prevent the buildup of plaque and harmful acids, and if you suffer from bruxism – tooth grinding and clenching – we may also recommend a mouth guard to help protect the implants while you sleep. With careful cleaning and conscientious care, your implants will last you the rest of your life.
Have more questions about dental implants or want to come in for an evaluation? We’re happy to help. Feel free to call us at 702.367.6666 with any questions, learn about our unique All-On-4 Implant treatment, or reach out to us at our contact page to schedule your consultation. We can’t wait to hear from you, and we look forward to seeing you back at this blog for more tips and information on keeping your smile beautiful, healthy, and strong.