For years, dentists relied on tooth replacement methods that only worked from the gum line up. With dental implants in Medford, a new era has dawned: one where patients can have an entire missing tooth replaced, from the root to the crown. Once a dental implant is placed, though, how long should it be expected to last? Keep reading to find out, and also learn what you can do to ensure your tooth replacement lasts longer!
What is a Dental Implant?
A cylinder-shaped titanium post that acts as a replacement for a missing tooth root, a dental implant is surgically inserted by a qualified dentist into the existing jawbone. The fixture then fuses with the bone material through a natural process called osseointegration.
Because this step is so integral to the overall success of the implant process, the dentist will allow you time (usually around three to six months) for its completion and for your gums to heal. One of the benefits of this careful approach is that the dental implant procedure has a 95% success rate.
How Long Can a Dental Implant Last?
Committing to dental implant placement to restore any number of teeth is a big deal, so it’s only right for you to wonder how long the restoration will last. There’s good news; with proper care, which should include brushing and flossing your teeth at least two times a day, you can expect an implant to last anywhere from 30 years to a lifetime.
That means you’ll no longer have to hide from the camera when it’s time for a photo, you can once again eat the foods you love, and you’ll receive an instant boost in the confidence department!
Protecting Your New Smile
In addition to performing excellent oral hygiene, here are some other ways to extend the life of your dental implants:
- Avoid eating hard items like nuts, as they could eventually cause a dental implant to dislodge.
- If you suffer from bruxism (teeth grinding), don’t hesitate to seek care from a dentist. Untreated, the condition to lead to an implant prematurely failing.
- Only use your teeth for chewing food. That means no fingernail biting or prying open packages with your teeth.
- Visit your dentist every six months for a cleaning and examination. This will help to keep harmful bacteria under control, which means healthier gums and longer-lasting implants.
Why Wait?
If you’re missing any number of teeth, why go another day without taking action? To move in the right direction of having your smile and functionality restored, contact your local implant dentist to schedule a visit today!
About the Author
Dr. Anthony Giamberardino earned his dental degree from Tufts University School of Dental Medicine. After three decades of providing superb dental care, he still remains just as excited about helping his patients elevate their dental health. Dr. Giamberardino restores smiles with the placement of dental implants at Giamberardino Dental Care, and he can be reached for more information through his website.