If you’ve been researching ways to replace lost teeth, you have probably read about how dental implants are the best way to restore an incomplete smile. These devices are designed to give lifelike prosthetic devices like crowns, dentures, and dental bridges the leverage they need to exert maximum chewing force, and they can prevent a host of oral health issues like jawbone erosion, dental misalignments, and further tooth loss. Here’s a guide to how these appliances may last for many years with excellent maintenance.
What Are Dental Implants?
A dental implant is a titanium post surgically inserted into the jawbone and naturally fused with its tissue through the natural process of osseointegration, and one or more of them will be used to support a lifelike dental restoration. These devices are placed through a painless surgical process, and the recovery period afterward is generally mild and easy to manage with over-the-counter pain medication. Dental implants look, work, and feel just like real teeth, which can help a person speak, chew, and smile confidently after tooth loss.
How Long Can Dental Implants Last?
The process of getting a dental implant always begins with a consultation so a qualified dentist can evaluate the patient’s mouth to make sure they can receive the treatment safely and effectively. This meeting helps prevent unforeseen complications and is a key part of why implants boast an incredible success rate of over 95% even ten years after placement. To make these appliances even better, they can last for several decades or even a lifetime if they receive excellent care.
How Can I Help My Dental Implants Last Their Longest?
Before you receive dental implants, your dentist will provide you with detailed instructions for ensuring a smooth and successful recovery and keeping your new teeth in excellent shape afterward. The recovery period after receiving dental implants is especially crucial since it is when the titanium posts gradually fuse with the bone tissue of the jaw, creating the sturdy foundation necessary for the restoration to exert superior chewing power. You can expect your postoperative instructions to include:
- Refraining from smoking or alcohol consumption.
- Sticking to a soft and mild diet to prevent stress to and irritation of the healing soft tissues.
- Refraining from spitting or drinking through a straw, as these actions can lead to a painful condition called dry socket.
One of the most significant advantages of dental implants is they only require the same oral hygiene measures as real teeth after they have fused with the jawbone. You’ll only need to brush, floss, and use antibacterial mouthwash every day while keeping up with regular dental checkups to prevent infections that can cause your devices to fail. It’s also a great idea to limit your consumption of sugars and acids, as these can erode the health of your gums.
Implants offer the longest lifespan of any dental restoration. Consulting with your dentist can help you determine the best way to replace your lost teeth.
About the Practice
Kemper Meadow Family Dentistry offers exemplary oral health services to the community of Forest Park. Led by Drs. Alexandra Kulwin and Jasmina Maric, the staff treats each patient with compassion, courtesy, and the finest customer service in the area. Areas of expertise include preventive, restorative, and cosmetic dentistry as well as implant services. To learn more about the advantages of dental implants, contact the office online or dial (513) 648-9900.