Dental implants are a popular and highly successful way to replace missing teeth. With proper care, they can last for decades or sometimes even a lifetime. However, while dental implants boast a high success rate of 95 percent, they can still fail under certain circumstances. The good news? Most failures are preventable. Here’s how you can protect your investment and avoid dental implant failure.
Prioritize Oral Hygiene
One of the most important steps in preventing implant failure is maintaining excellent oral hygiene. Plaque and bacteria can build up around implants just like they do around natural teeth. If left unchecked, this can lead to gum inflammation or a condition called peri-implantitis, which causes bone loss around the implant.
To avoid this:
- Brush at least twice a day for two minutes.
- Floss daily around your implant (using implant-safe floss or a water flosser).
- Use an antibacterial mouthwash if recommended by your dentist.
Attend Regular Dental Checkups
Seeing your dentist regularly is crucial. Professional cleanings remove plaque and tartar that brushing alone can’t reach, especially around implants and under the gumline. Your dentist will also monitor the health of your gums and bone to detect early signs of implant issues.
Early intervention is key. Catching problems before they escalate can save your implant and prevent more costly treatments.
Stop Smoking
Smoking is one of the leading risk factors for dental implant failure. It impairs blood flow to the gums and delays healing after surgery. Smokers are more prone to infections and bone loss, two major causes of implant failure.
If you’re considering implants, quitting smoking before and after your procedure significantly improves your chances of long-term success.
Manage Health Conditions
Certain medical conditions, such as uncontrolled diabetes, osteoporosis, and autoimmune disorders, can affect your body’s ability to heal and integrate with the implant. If you have a chronic health issue, make sure it’s well-managed and inform your dentist so they can tailor your care plan accordingly.
Also, discuss any medications you take, especially those affecting bone health, as some may influence implant success.
Avoid Teeth Grinding and Clenching
Excessive pressure from grinding or clenching (bruxism) can stress your implant and the surrounding bone. Over time, this may lead to micro-movements that affect the stability of the implant.
If you grind your teeth, especially at night, your dentist may recommend a custom night guard to protect your implant and natural teeth.
Follow Post-Surgical Instructions
Immediately after your implant procedure, follow your dentist’s recovery instructions closely. This includes eating soft foods, avoiding strenuous activity, keeping the surgical site clean, and taking medications as prescribed.
The healing process (osseointegration) is vital to implant success. Give your body the best chance to heal properly.
Dental implants are a long-term solution for a healthy, confident smile, but their success depends heavily on proper care. By practicing good hygiene, seeing your dentist regularly, managing health conditions, and making smart lifestyle choices, you can significantly reduce your risk of implant failure and enjoy a strong, beautiful smile for years to come.
About the Practice
Ready to transform your life and get your smile and functionality back? Valer Dental & Braces offers a free dental implant consultation right out of the gate, so you’re not financially obligated for having an initial conversation. Our expert team can handle the whole procedure from start to finish – no need for outside referrals! We also welcome dental insurance to ease the financial burden on you. Schedule your appointment today online or call one of our conveniently located offices in the Albuquerque area.