Dental implants have empowered countless patients to replace their lost teeth with beautiful and functional restorations that look and work just like the real thing. Implants can last for several decades or possibly for life if they receive excellent care, and adopting a few smart oral health habits can help you keep your restorations in great shape. Here’s a quick look at a few causes of dental implant failure and how you can avoid them.
How Do Dental Implants Work?
Dental implants consist of a titanium post surgically inserted into the jawbone, a lifelike restoration such as a crown, bridge, or denture, and an abutment piece anchoring the two together. Dental implants can function as well and last as long as real teeth because they are designed to fuse with the jawbone through the natural process of osseointegration, which gives the restorations mounted upon them the leverage and security they need for superior biting power and lifespan.
What Causes Dental Implants to Fail?
While dental implants are incredibly durable, they are not invincible and can be damaged or compromised by oral injuries and infections. A few reasons for dental implants to fail include:
- Physical trauma: A dental implant can be knocked out by a blow to the mouth or damaged by frequent stress due to teeth grinding or aggressive chewing.
- Failed osseointegration: A dental implant that does not bond adequately with the patient’s jawbone is much more likely to fail early.
- Peri-implantitis: This happens when the bone or gum tissues supporting a dental implant are eroded by infection.
How Can I Prevent Dental Implant Failure?
Luckily, you can help your dental implants stay in great shape for as long as possible with a few smart habits. Some of these include:
- Practicing excellent oral hygiene by brushing, flossing, and rinsing with antibacterial mouthwash every day.
- Visiting your dentist every six months for routine exams and cleanings.
- Limiting your intake of sugary, starchy, acidic, and alcoholic beverages and foods.
- Wearing a mouthguard when you play sports or a nightguard if you grind your teeth in your sleep. Your dentist will be able to set you up with a customized appliance that offers superior protection.
Don’t let preventable oral health problems compromise your beautifully restored smile. Consulting with your dentist can help you understand the best ways to keep your dental implants in excellent shape.
About the Author
Dr. Joseph Salvaggio earned his dental degree at the University of Toronto Faculty of Dentistry and completed a one-year residency at Sunnybrook Hospital to develop his surgical and diagnostic skills. His office in Brampton offers general, cosmetic, restorative, and emergency dentistry as well as dental implants. To learn more about how you can keep your implants in great condition, contact the office online or dial 289-569-0721.