Dental implants have been used for many years to replace missing teeth within the mouth of patients of all ages. Implants can hold onto crowns, bridges and even overdentures to help enhance and perfect the smile. They are often made of titanium and are incredibly durable when placed properly.
What are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are small posts that are inserted deep into the jawbone. Over the course of a few months, the implant’s post will fuse naturally with the bone and become an integral part of your smile. This process of fusion is known as osseointegration, and it relies on solid bone mass and structure in order to happen correctly. Implants are the abutments, or foundations, for other restorations, like crowns, bridges and complete dentures.
How Long Will Implants Last?
The reason so many people choose implants is because of how durable they are. You can expect your implants to last for three to four decades or longer. They can become a permanent part of your smile and last for many years without giving any trouble. The titanium used to create implants is incredibly strong, so it will not break or fracture even with great force. By keeping your teeth and gums healthy, you can expect many decades of an implant that helps to enhance your smile and fill in areas where you are naturally missing your teeth.
How to Keep Your Implants Strong and Healthy
While implants are incredibly long-lasting and can even be thought of as permanent, they can fail over time for a variety of different reasons. In order for implants to stay in place, they need enough healthy and solid bone to fuse and bond with. If you are beginning to deal with bone loss problems around the jaw, the implant may become loose and need to be replaced. Bone loss can be caused by gum disease or even facial trauma and other medical conditions. Gum disease is preventable with routine dental checkups and regular at-home care. Avoiding trauma to the face as well as taking care of issues concerning bruxism (tooth grinding) can help in maintaining your implants and keeping them in place without needing to have them repaired or replaced completely.
If you would like to come into our office for a consultation regarding implants, call us today to speak with one of our helpful staff members.