How Long Do Dental Implants Last?

Dental implants are titanium posts that are surgically placed in your jawbone to prevent deterioration and provide your restorations with a sturdy and strong foundation. This keeps your replacement teeth from slipping and shifting and provides a variety of unique benefits like preventing your facial structure from sinking. Implants can last over three decades when they’re properly cared for. How’s this possible when dentures can only last up to a decade? Titanium is an incredibly biocompatible metal that naturally fuses with your jawbone through a process called osseointegration. It also forms something called an oxide layer, which is a thin layer of oxygen that keeps the posts from eroding and creates a strong bond with your jawbone.

What Are Some Habits to Avoid With Implants?

To avoid implant failure, it’s best to commit to routine oral hygiene and visit your dentist in Mid Cities every six months for a professional checkup and cleaning. Some habits that you’ll want to avoid, ensuring the success of your new restorations include:

• Teeth grinding and clenching.
• Tobacco use.
• Chewing or biting on objects that aren’t food.

It’s best to quit these habits or seek treatment from your dentist to reduce the impact they have on your mouth. This way, you can get the most out of your replacement teeth.

How Can You Get The Most From Your Investment?

Because dental implants are so similar to your natural teeth, you can take care of them in the same way. That means there’s no special aftercare instructions for them. Taking good care of them can play an important role in their success. It’s well worth the effort, because they’ll improve your quality of life. Be sure to follow these tips while caring for your implants:

• Brush them at least twice a day for two minutes with a soft-bristled toothbrush.
• Floss once a day.
• Visit your dentist every six months.
• Ask your dentist for recommendations for oral hygiene products.

Implants boast a 95 percent success rate. Taking the time to properly care for them can ensure that they last over 30 years, longer than any traditional restoration options. Although implants may have a larger up-front cost, they can save you money, time, and hassle down the road! About the Author Dr. Adrian De Vincenzo is passionate about improving his patients’ quality of life by providing them with restorative options that meld with their active lifestyles. He has experience placing dental implants and is also certified in nitrous oxide, Level 1 sedation, and Invisalign. As a member of the Texas Dental Association and Dallas County Dental Society, he focuses on staying up-to-date with the latest advancements in his field so he can provide his patients with high-quality care they deserve. For questions or to schedule a consultation to learn more about dental implants, visit Cimarron Family Dentistry’s website or call 817-268-1112.