Has a recent accident or an oral health issue left you with one or more gaps in your grin? Though there is a range of tooth replacement options that can fill in your beam, dental implants are one of the most popular. These titanium screws are the only option that replaces both the roots and the crown of the tooth. They are incredibly lifelike and give patients a gorgeous, healthy smile that they are sure to love. If you’re considering this tooth replacement option, you may be wondering how long it lasts. Read on to learn about the lifespan of dental implants as well as what you can do to extend it as much as possible.
How Long Do Dental Implants Last?
Though dental implants last around 15 years on average, this number can vary depending on how well you care for them. If you take excellent care of your smile, you can extend the lifespan of your dental implants significantly. In some cases, they may even last a lifetime. But, if you don’t practice good oral hygiene, you’re likely to develop oral health issues like cavities and gum disease, which may cause additional tooth loss or implant failure.
4 Ways to Extend the Dental Implant Lifespan
So, what can you do to make your dental implants last as long as possible? Fortunately, there are several ways to care for both your implants and your remaining teeth, such as:
- Avoid bad oral health habits – Smoking or using other tobacco products, using your teeth as tools, eating ice, consuming too much sugar, and drinking alcohol excessively are all bad oral habits that may lead to dental implant failure.
- Practice oral hygiene at home – Brush your teeth once in the morning as well as every night before bed. You should also floss at least once per day, preferably after your last meal. This will get rid of plaque, food particles, and oral bacteria that have built up throughout the day.
- Eat a mouth-healthy diet – Cut back on the amount of sweet, starchy, high-carb, acidic, and sticky foods that you eat. Instead, fill up on tooth-healthy foods, such as fresh fruits and vegetables, lean meats, nuts, dairy, and fish.
- Visit your dentist – Make biannual visits to your dentist’s office for checkups and cleanings. This will allow them to thoroughly clean your smile and to ensure that your dental implants as well as your remaining teeth are in good condition.
The lifespan of dental implants depends largely on how well you care for your smile. With the above tips, you should be able to enjoy a beam that lasts a lifetime!
About the Practice
Louisville and the surrounding communities are in good hands with Dr. Kenneth Bell, Dr. Lindsey Webber, and Dr. Steven Kaebnick. They are the three skilled dentists who lead the team at Bell Dental and offer an array of exceptional treatments to their Kentucky patients, including tooth replacement options. They can also give you helpful tips on extending the lifespan of dental implants so you can enjoy your new smile for years to come. If you’re interested in scheduling an appointment with Bell Dental or want more information on dental implants, visit their website or call their office at (502) 749-2355.