Dental implants are a popular way to replace missing teeth. They are small titanium screws that are inserted directly into the jawbone and fuse with it through a process called osseointegration. Since they are the only option that replaces both the roots and the crown of the tooth, they are the tooth replacement of choice for many patients and dentists alike. If you’re considering dental implants, you may be wondering how long they last period keep reading to learn about the lifespan of dental implants and how you can make them last longer.
How Long Do Dental Implants Last?
The amount of time that dental implants will last will depend on how well you care for them, but they last 15 years on average. In some cases, patients manage to make their implants last upward of 30 years.
Even so, good oral hygiene will be a big determining factor in how long they last. If you don’t brush your teeth twice per day and floss every night, this may result in gum disease or cavities, which can lead to additional tooth loss or jawbone deterioration.
4 Ways to Extend the Lifespan of Dental Implants
With proper care, some patients have been able to extend the lifespan of dental implants to make them last a lifetime. Some tips on making your restorations last as long as possible include:
- Practice good oral hygiene– Brush every morning before you eat breakfast and every night before you go to bed for two minutes. Use a toothbrush with soft bristles to avoid damaging your implants or tooth enamel. Additionally, use toothpaste that contains fluoride to strengthen your smile. You also need to floss nightly to remove food particles and plaque from between your teeth.
- Avoid bad oral health habits – Smoking, drinking excessive amounts of alcohol, and using your teeth to open bottles of packages can all cause your implants to fail. Avoid these bad habits to protect your smile, and reach out to your dentist, doctor, or mental health professional if you need help.
- Eat a mouth-healthy diet – This includes fish, lean meat, nuts, dairy products, and fresh fruits and vegetables. Additionally, avoid eating too much sweet, starchy, acidic, or sticky foods.
- Visit your dentist – See your dentist twice per year for checkups and cleanings.
About the Practice
Weldon Dental of Rome is here to help you prevent oral health issues and maintain a gorgeous, brag-worthy smile that you can’t wait to show off. If you are missing one or more teeth, they offer dental implants to fill in the gaps. They can also give you advice on extending the lifespan of dental implants so you can enjoy your new smile for years to come. To set up an appointment with Weldon Dental of Rome or for more information on their services, call their office at (706) 232-2082 or visit their website.