Dental implants are the best tooth replacement option out there. Thanks to its unique ability to replace the roots of the missing teeth, patients can experience a wide range of benefits that can’t be achieved with dentures and dental bridges. This includes implants’ success rate of over 95%! However, failure is still possible if you aren’t careful. Here are some of the common causes of dental implant failure and some steps you should take to keep your dental implants healthy for many years to come.
What Causes Dental Implant Failure?
There are multiple reasons why dental implants can fail. Here are some of the most common.
- Peri-Implantitis: The most common reason behind dental implant failure is peri-implantitis. This is an infection of the gum tissue surrounds the implant. This can result of poor dental hygiene and untreated gum disease.
- Jawbone Loss: Bone loss occurs when you are missing teeth. This is because the root of the missing tooth isn’t there to stimulate the bone with regular chewing. When a dental implant is placed in an area where there isn’t enough bone tissue, it may not properly fuse to the jawbone. This is why bone grafting is often required before getting implants.
- Trauma: If you’ve experienced an injury or blow to the mouth, you could end up with a dislodged dental implant.
5 Ways to Prevent Dental Implant Failure?
In many cases, dental implant failure can be prevented. Here are some ways you can keep your implants strong and healthy.
- Excellent Oral Hygiene: Dental implants aren’t susceptible to tooth decay, but you still need to keep up an excellent oral hygiene routine. Having healthy gum tissue and surrounding teeth are crucial to keeping your implants healthy. Make sure that you are brushing twice and flossing every day.
- Seeing Your Dentist: By visiting your dentist every six months for cleaning and checkups, they can check and ensure that your dental implants are in excellent health and healing productively. If any problems arise, they can be addressed sooner rather than later.
- Don’t Smoke: Smoking and other tobacco products interfere with the healing process after dental implant placement surgery. You should refrain from smoking for at least a few months following your procedure.
- Get Plenty of Calcium: Calcium is needed to maintain strong bones and teeth. This mineral can be found in milk, yogurt, broccoli, oranges, and cheese!
- Avoid Bad Dental Habits: You shouldn’t munch down on hard candies or chew on ice. Ask your dentist about getting a nightguard If you clench or grind your teeth at night.
Dental implant failure isn’t likely, but it can happen in some circumstances. By using the tips listed above, you can reduce your risks and enjoy a complete smile for many years to come!
About the Practice
At Newpark Mall Family Dental Group, Dr. Nancy Quach, Dr. Adriana Rosato, and Dr. Kai Lei work together to treat patients in the Newark community. If you have concerns about your dental implant, they would be happy to help. For more information on dental implants or to schedule an appointment, visit their website or call (510) 796-8888.