Dental implants are the most durable and aesthetically-pleasing tooth replacement option. They look, feel, and function like natural teeth. Dental implants also provide the ability to smile freely without fear of denture slippage or the embarrassment of missing teeth, which leads to a wonderful boost in confidence. Although dental implants aren’t the least expensive tooth replacement solution, they are more than worth the investment. And of course, if you’re going to make this investment in yourself, you want it to last as long as possible. Dental implants can last 25 years or even more, as long as you care for them properly. Here’s how to ensure that your dental implants will last a lifetime.
Choose The Right Implant Dentist
Implant dentistry is fairly straightforward but it must be done with precision and care in order to get the most successful and aesthetically pleasing results. Although many dentists are technically qualified to perform the implant procedure, it’s best to choose a dentist who specializes in implant dentistry if you want to maximize the longevity of your dental implants.
Follow Your Implant Dentist’s Post-Procedure Instructions
If you trust your specialist with the implant procedure, then why not trust them with the aftercare instructions as well? The post-procedure instructions are designed to promote healing, avoid complications, and ensure that your dental implants last as long as possible. The better you adhere to the instructions your dentist gives you, the higher the likelihood of a successful dental implant treatment.
Practice Consistent Oral Hygiene
One of the great things about dental implants is that they require the same care as natural teeth. Just as your daily brushing and flossing help to ensure the longevity of your natural teeth, they do the same for your dental implants. By regularly removing plaque from your teeth and gums, you’re reducing the risk of decay, gum disease, and other dental issues that threaten your oral health and the longevity of your dental implants.
Maintain A Healthy Lifestyle
Your overall health and your oral health are inextricably linked. Studies have shown clear connections between gum disease and serious health conditions including heart disease, diabetes, and stroke. Conversely, research also suggests that individuals who are physically active and eat healthy tend to have better oral health as well.
Visit The Dentist Regularly For Dental Cleanings And Exams
Your dentist is your partner in oral health. During regular visits, your dentist can clean hard-to-reach areas and remove any tartar that may have built up between visits. They can also keep an eye out and catch cavities, signs of gum disease, or other dental issues in their early stage while they’re still easy to treat. The sooner you treat minor dental problems, the better chance you have of avoiding complications with your implants.
Avoid Tobacco Products
In the period following your dental implant procedure, it’s especially important to avoid tobacco products because they can put you at greater risk of infection and interfere with your body’s ability to heal. The healing stage for implants is crucial because it’s the time when they fuse with the bone in your jaw. The better you support your body during that time, the better the chance of a long-lasting implant. Smoking can also damage or block salivary glands, resulting in dry mouth, which allows bacteria to grow and increases the risk of decay and gum disease. Smoking is also one of the leading causes of tooth loss, so if you want to increase the longevity of your dental implants, it’s probably best to avoid smoking and other tobacco products altogether.
Get A Custom-Made Mouth Guard If You Grind Your Teeth
Bruxism is a condition in which you grind or clench your teeth. For some people, it happens unconsciously while they’re awake, and for others, it happens while they sleep. Bruxism and teeth grinding can result in implant failure, but wearing a custom-made mouth guard can protect the teeth and increase the chance of a successful implant treatment.
Taking great care of your dental implants is as easy as taking great care of your teeth. And having a great partner is the best way to ensure that you remain in optimal oral health. At San Diego Periodontics and Implant Dentistry, we’re ready to be your partner.
Dental Implant Specialist In San Diego | Dr. Kennie Kwok
At San Diego Periodontics and Implant Dentistry, you’re under the care of Dr. Kennie Kwok, one of San Diego’s most well-respected and sought-after dental implant surgeons. Dr. Kwok is Board Certified in both periodontology and dental implant surgery, and he has extensive experience performing dental implant surgery. For more information on Dr. Kwok’s dental implant services or to schedule a consultation, give us a call at (619) 543-0905 today.
