If you have just gotten dental implants in Roselle Park, we would like to say congratulations! You have made a wonderful decision for your oral and overall health. Dental implants are the very best tooth replacement option for many patients, especially because dental implant procedures have a very high success rate — above 98%, reports the American Association of Endodontists.
But occasionally, dental implants do fail. What causes dental implants to come loose or fall out, potentially costing you thousands of dollars, time, and possibly discomfort in the meantime? And how can you prevent them from failing? Let’s take a closer look at these important questions in this week’s blog post.
Why Dental Implants Fail
The survival of dental implants depends on osseointegration, or new bone growth that fuses your implants together with the jawbone. Osseointegration occurs over the course of 4 to 6 months, after which the prosthetic tooth or teeth can be placed. Dental implants can be expected to last a lifetime in healthy patients.
Even initially successful dental implants can fail without proper maintenance, though. Peri-implantitis is an infection around the implant that eventually causes it to fail or become loose. Tobacco use and smoking are common causes of dental implant failure, because if an infection does develop around the implant, it is much harder for a smoker’s body to heal itself. Poor dental hygiene can also lead to infection and implant failure.
How to Take Care of Your Dental Implants
The key to enjoying your dental implants for a lifetime is developing excellent oral hygiene habits. Brush your teeth for two minutes, after each meal or at least twice a day. Floss between your teeth daily.
If you wear a removable denture or partial, brush your prosthetic and gently clean around your implant abutments, too. You may want to invest in a water flosser or inter-dental cleaner to get a more thorough clean.
To enjoy your dental implants for a long life to come, make sure you…
- Brush and floss
- Visit your dentist as recommended for routine checkups
- Maintain a balanced, nutritious diet
- Do not smoke or use tobacco products
What to Do If An Implant Comes Loose
It may be alarming if you notice a dental implant has come loose. It indicates that bone has been lost between the implant and jaw. Don’t wiggle the implant, as that could cause further bone loss. Take an over-the-counter pain medication if you are experiencing discomfort related to the loose implant, and get in touch with your dentist as soon as possible to find a solution.
About the Author
Dr. Jamie Oshidar is a passionate implant specialist serving Roselle Park and the surrounding areas. To learn more about the comprehensive services offered at Roselle Park Dental & Implants or to schedule an appointment for you or a loved one, you are invited to contact the office at 908-245-1745.