How Long Do Dental Implants Last?
October 11, 2024 9:00 amIf you’re considering dental implants, you’re making a smart investment in your long-term oral health. Dental implants are not only durable and natural-looking, but they can also last a lifetime with the right care. But what does “lifetime” really mean, and how can you help your implants last as long as possible? Let’s break it down.
The Lifespan of Dental Implants
The implant itself—a titanium post embedded in your jawbone—can literally last a lifetime with good care. Once it fuses with your bone, it’s incredibly stable. However, the crown attached to it (the part that looks like a tooth) typically lasts 10 to 15 years before it may need replacement due to normal wear. While implants won’t ever get cavities (one less thing to worry about!), gum disease can still affect the tissue around them, so keeping your gums healthy is essential.
How to Make Your Dental Implants Last
1. Stick to Good Oral Hygiene
Even though implants aren’t susceptible to cavities, brushing twice a day and flossing are still vital. Keeping your gums and the area around your implants clean helps prevent gum disease, which can jeopardize your implant’s stability.
2. Don’t Skip Your Regular Checkups
Regular dental visits allow your dentist to monitor the health of your implants and surrounding tissue. Dr. Toland can spot potential issues early and ensure that your implant stays in good shape, along with giving your teeth a professional cleaning to remove any buildup that brushing can miss.
3. Avoid Hard Biting
Implants are strong, but biting down on hard objects like ice or pen caps can still cause damage. So, protect your investment and leave opening packages to the scissors. Also, if you grind your teeth at night, consider wearing a nightguard to protect both your natural teeth and your implants from unnecessary stress.
4. Keep Your Gums and Jaw Healthy
Smoking and excessive alcohol can negatively impact your gum health and bone density, which are critical for keeping your implants secure. By making healthier choices, you’ll give your implants the best chance to last a lifetime.
Expert Dental Implant Care at Toland Dental in Wynne, AR
At Toland Dental in Wynne, AR, Dr. Richard Toland and his team are here to help you maintain your dental implants for the long haul. Whether you’re new to implants or want to ensure your current implants stay healthy, Dr. Toland can guide you every step of the way. Schedule an appointment today to keep your smile looking and feeling its best!
Categorised in: Dental Implants
