Dentist with digital model of tooth implant on light background, closeup
Do Dental Implants Need to Be Replaced: What You Need to Know
Dental implants are one of the most successful and effective ways to restore missing teeth. They can help restore the proper functions of your mouth and give you a beautiful and healthy smile.
But, do you need to replace your implants after a few years?
Here’s what you need to know.
What Are Dental Implants?
As mentioned, a dental implant is a restorative dental treatment that will allow you to replace an entire tooth from the root up.
Implants replace not only the crown but also replace the root. That’s extremely important as the root plays a crucial role in stimulating your jawbone and preventing bone mass loss.
How Dental Implants Work
The process of getting implants can be quite straightforward or a bit more complicated, depending on your oral health.
If you have good oral health, then the dentist will insert a metal post into your jawbone. This post will act like the tooth root. Once the metal post fusses with the surrounding tissue (a process that can take up to six months,) the dentist will then attach the abutment. This part serves as support for the artificial tooth or dental crown.
If you suffer from gum disease or don’t have enough bone tissue to support the implant, then you will have to address these issues first before you can get the implant. This can significantly lengthen the duration of the treatment.
How Long Do Dental Implants Last?
Dental implants have a very high success rate, and the crown can last up to 25 years. The metal post, however, can last for the entirety of your life if you take proper care of your implants.
Generally speaking, the abutment and crown are more sensitive and vulnerable to change and damage compared to the implant itself – the part that is inserted in the jawbone.
How to Care for Dental Implants?
As mentioned, the longevity of your implants is influenced by how well you take care of them. Here are some tips you should follow to ensure your implants will last for as long as possible:
- Brush, floss, and rinse daily
- Schedule regular dentist visits
- Use a nightguard if you suffer from bruxism
- Use a mouthguard if you play sports
- Do not use your teeth as tools
If your crown starts to wear off or it chips or cracks, then you will need to replace it.
Interested in Implants? Let’s Have a Chat!
Dental implants are permanent solutions to missing teeth. However, not everyone is a suitable candidate. And, even if you are, the process may require multiple steps and treatments.
If you have any questions about dental implants or other dental treatments, you can visit Douglas G. Hope DDS, FAGD. We will perform a thorough investigation and determine if you are a good candidate for dental implants.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Hope.
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