According to some estimates, dental implants are successful in over 95% of cases. However, they are not totally impervious to problems. In rare instances, dental implant failure occurs. While this possibility should not scare you, it shouldmotivate you to take some simple preventive measures. Applying the following tips will greatly increase the chances that your dental implants will serve you well for a lifetime.
Choose the Right Implant Dentist
Most implant dentists are quite skilled, but there are some who lack experience or whose in-office technology is behind the times. Researching practices in your area will help you choose a dentist who has a track record of successful implant cases. If a practice has on-staff specialists, such as a periodontist, that is even better. Once you find the right dentist, you can rely on them, not just for your initial implant procedure, but also for help with maintaining your implants for the long haul.
Pay Attention to Oral Hygiene
The top cause of dental implant failure is an infection called peri-implantitis. It is usually the result of missteps in oral hygiene. To reduce your risk of peri-implantitis, you should:
- Thoroughly brush your teeth twice a day. Be sure to clean the backs of your teeth and the area along the gumline.
- Floss once a day. Old-fashioned string floss tends to be more effective than water flossers or floss picks.
- Drink plenty of water. Water can rinse away food particles and bacteria that might otherwise lead to problems.
Avoid Smoking
Smoking slows down the body’s healing processes, interferes with the immune system, and contributes to a number of oral health problems. It is particularly dangerous for dental implants. A study by the University of Murcia in Spain found that dental implants in smokers had a failure rate of 15.8% while nonsmokers had a failure rate of only 1.4%.
If you smoke, every effort you make to quit will be well worth it! If quitting altogether seems like an overwhelming prospect, you should at least strive to cut back on the number of cigarettes you consume each day.
Manage Your Overall Health
One systemic disease that can adversely affect dental implants is diabetes. When it is not controlled, it can seriously slow down your body’s healing process, which can interfere with a dental implant’s ability to bond with your jawbone. Diabetics also tend to be at a higher risk for infections. Working with your primary care practitioner to manage any chronic conditions you have may be essential for your implants’ long-term success.
Talk to Your Dentist
This article has touched on just a few things you can do to reduce the risk of dental implant failure. Your dentist will be happy to provide you with further insight on how you can care for your replacement teeth. Hopefully, your restored smile will thrive for many years to come!
Meet the Practice
New Haven Dental Group in Hamden features a team of general dentists and specialists who are proud to provide comprehensive dental implant services, from surgical placement to long-term maintenance. If you have questions about how to care for your implants, they would be happy to speak with you. Contact our practice at 203-587-7327.