Dental Implants Can Last a Lifetime; Here’s How Make the Most of Your Investment

Dental implants are an increasingly popular way to replace lost teeth, and it isn’t hard to see why. These incredible prosthetic devices are designed to support lifelike dental restorations that exert maximum chewing power, and they can last for decades if the patient takes excellent care of them. Here’s a brief look at how dental implants work, how long they can last, and how you can keep them in great shape for many years.

How Are Dental Implants Placed?

Dental implants are placed through a specialized multi-step process that spans several months, and it begins with a consultation at your dentist’s office. During this meeting, your oral health professional will carefully evaluate your mouth and jawbones and determine the best way to replace your lost teeth. While oral infections and jawbone atrophy can disqualify you from dental implants, your dentist may be able to address these issues with restorative work or by referring you to a specialist for bone grafts so you can receive implants later.

Once you are approved for implants, you’ll be scheduled for a painless and minor surgical procedure that places titanium pieces in your jawbone. Most patients report that recovering from this treatment is much more comfortable than what would be expected after a tooth extraction, and you can minimize your discomfort by adhering to your aftercare instructions. After the titanium pieces have fused with your jawbone through the natural process of osseointegration, your dentist will attach abutment pieces and a lifelike restoration such as a crown, denture, or bridge.

How Long Can Dental Implants Last?

Dental implants can last for decades or even for life if the patient takes excellent care of them and stays in good oral health. A few excellent ways to help your implants last for as long as possible include:

• Practicing excellent oral hygiene by brushing, flossing, and using antibacterial mouthwash.
• Seeing your dentist regularly for routine checkups.
• Refraining from bad habits like tobacco use, excessive alcohol consumption, and using your teeth to open packages or bottles.
• Enjoying a balanced diet while minimizing your intake of sugars and acids.

Dental implants are the best way to complete your smile after tooth loss. Consulting with your dentist can help you understand how to achieve the grin of your dreams.

About the Author

Dr. Stephen Wardlaw received his dental degree at the Baylor College of Dentistry in 1998 and develops his skills further with continuing education coursework. He is proud to serve as a member of the American Dental Association, the State of Texas Dental Association, and the Academy of General Dentistry. His office in Arlington offers general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry as well as implant services. To schedule your consultation for dental implants, contact him online or dial his office’s front desk at (817) 572-5115.