Dental implants are a long-lasting, realistic-looking choice for tooth replacement. With proper care, implants can last many years, since they are made of durable materials and are meant to be permanent. Your implant dentist can provide instructions on how to care for your implants to ensure they last as long as possible.
How Dental Implants Work
Dental implants provide the best possible option for tooth replacement because they replace the whole tooth. Unlike dentures, they don’t sit directly on the gums but are embedded in the jawbone. The bone bonds to the titanium roots, which hold the porcelain crowns firmly in place. Both substances are durable and long-lasting.
The root portion of an implant helps keep the jawbone from changing shape over time. This change in the jawbone occurs naturally if there is no root in the tooth socket. With dentures, the jaw atrophies, making it necessary to reline or even remake a denture every few years. Implants don’t require this type of ongoing maintenance.
Taking Care of Your Implants
Your implant dentist or cosmetic dentist can provide guidelines on how to take care of your implants in the long term. You should keep your teeth clean, since even your implants can collect bacteria. Though this bacteria won’t harm the implants, it can cause decay in any remaining teeth. You should also floss around the abutments for the same reason. The porcelain crowns also require some special care. Avoid anything that could damage them, such as biting pens and pencils or chewing ice. If you engage in contact sports, wear a mouth guard to protect your teeth. If the crowns are damaged in any way, they can be replaced while leaving the implants intact.
It’s very important to prevent gum disease if you have implants. Gum disease is a common cause of implant failure, so if you develop problems, they should be treated promptly. Your dentist might recommend more frequent checkups to be sure your gums and implants remain healthy.
Call us at the office of Dr. Daggula today to schedule an appointment and discuss your implant options.
