Dental implants are artificial tooth roots made of biocompatible materials such as titanium. They are surgically placed into the jawbone to provide a stable foundation for replacement teeth, offering a natural-looking and functional solution for individuals with missing teeth. If you’re considering implants as a reliable solution, you may be wondering how long they usually last. Here’s more about the lifespan of dental implants and how they can restore and enhance your smile.
How Long Do Dental Implants Last?
Typically, dental implants have an average lifespan of 15 years, but with proper care, they can last up to 30 years or even a lifetime. Neglecting to properly care for your dental implants can result in oral health complications that may impact both your implants and natural teeth. Prioritize care to ensure the longevity of your dental implants and overall oral health.
11 Potential Causes of Dental Implant Failure
Implant failure occurs when a dental implant fails to properly integrate with the jawbone, resulting in the loss of the implant. Aside from causing discomfort, it significantly reduces the lifespan of your restorations. Multiple factors can contribute to implant failure, including:
- Medications that affect bone healing
- Poor implant placement or design
- Overloading the implants too soon after surgery
- Smoking or using other tobacco products
- Inadequate post-operative care
- Excessive biting forces
- Medical conditions (e.g., uncontrolled diabetes, cancer)
- Insufficient jawbone density
- Poor oral hygiene
- Gum disease
- Infection
4 Ways to Extend the Lifespan of Dental Implants
To ensure the longevity of your dental implants, proper care is essential. Here are some key practices to maximize their lifespan:
- Practicing good oral hygiene – Maintaining the health of your dental implants requires regular care. Brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes, using fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush. Additionally, make sure to floss every night to effectively eliminate plaque and food debris from the spaces between your teeth. These practices will help preserve the integrity of your dental implants and bolster your overall oral health.
- Avoid bad oral health habits – This includes refraining from smoking, limiting alcohol consumption, and avoiding using your teeth to open packages or bottles.
- Eat a mouth-healthy diet – For optimal maintenance of your dental implants, incorporate fish, nuts, dairy products, lean meat, leafy greens, fresh fruits, and vegetables into your diet. Limit the consumption of starchy, acidic, sweet, or sticky foods and beverages to promote their longevity.
- Visit your dentist – To ensure the ongoing health of your dental implants, it’s important to schedule bi-annual checkups and cleanings with your dentist. These appointments allow for a thorough examination of your implants and help identify any potential issues in their early stages.
About the Practice
At White Peak Dental, our dedicated team is committed to delivering outstanding oral health care, ensuring that patients maintain healthy and joyful smiles. We offer dental implants as a reliable solution for missing teeth while providing valuable guidance on extending their lifespan. Whether are interested in getting more information about dental implants or wish to set up an appointment with White Peak Dental’s skilled team, visit their website or call their office at (801) 293-1234.