There are a variety of reasons why someone might need to have a tooth replaced. From sports-related injuries to not properly caring for your beam, losing a tooth or having to get one pulled is never any fun. Regardless of if you can see the gap in your grin or not, it’s important to have it replaced to prevent further issues. Fortunately, there is a range of replacement options available, including dental implants. These are a favorite option for many since they offer a variety of benefits, but how long do they last? Read on to learn about the dental implant lifespan and how you can make them last as long as possible.
How Long Do Dental Implants Last?
On average, dental implants last about 15 years. However, the dental implant lifespan can be longer of shorter depending on how you care for them. In some cases, they can even last a lifetime. The reason why they can last so long is because of the material they are made from. These titanium posts are incredibly sturdy and can stand up to the pressure of biting and chewing. They also fuse with your jawbone through osseointegration, which makes them as stable and secure as your natural teeth.
4 Ways to Extend the Dental Implant Lifespan
As previously mentioned, dental implants will only last a long time if you take care of them properly. A few ways that you can ensure your new smile lasts as long as possible include:
- Avoid bad oral health habits – Don’t participate in bad oral habits like smoking cigarettes, using your teeth as tools, eating ice, drinking too much alcohol, and eating too much sugar.
- Practice oral hygiene at home – Brush your teeth in the morning and at night for two minutes each time. You should also floss every night before you go to bed.
- Eat a mouth-healthy diet – Cutting back on alcohol and sweets isn’t enough. You should also eat foods that promote a healthy smile, such as lean meats, fish, leafy greens, fresh fruits and veggies, low-fat or fat-free dairy, and whole grains.
- Visit your dentist – Make biannual appointments with your dentist for checkups and cleanings to keep your smile problem-free.
Dental implants are an excellent way to replace missing teeth, but you must take care of them properly. With the above information, you can keep your teeth and implants strong and healthy for a lifetime!
About the Practice
St. Albans Dental is a practice full of skilled oral health professionals who aim to help you keep your teeth looking and functioning at their best. For patients who are missing one or more teeth, they offer replacement options like dental implants to keep your smile healthy and looking great. They can also teach you the best practices to prevent issues and extend your dental implant lifespan as much as possible. To make an appointment with Dr. Tyler Aten, Dr. Simran Saini, and their team at St. Albans Dental or for more information, call (802) 524-4844 or visit their website.