Are you struggling with moderate to severe tooth loss? If you’re looking for the most reliable tooth-replacement solution for your smile, then you might consider getting dental implants. While they provide more stability than traditional restorations like bridges and dentures, you may be wondering if the treatment is safe for your oral health. Read on to learn why you have nothing to worry about and ways to make the most of your results.
How Safe Is It to Get Dental Implants?
In most cases, dental implants are one of the safest solutions for those struggling with tooth loss. This is due to their ability to integrate with the jawbone tissues along with the durability to avoid excessive wear and tear. For this reason, implants are a preferred restoration option for millions living in America.
Furthermore, the placement process typically has a success rate of 95% or more. This means that you’ll be less likely to experience any complications or concerns in the long run. That said, you’ll want to watch out for factors that can cause dental implants to fail. These can include:
- Peri-implantitis—a form of gum disease—can occur due to poor oral hygiene
- Smoking or chewing tobacco, which can weaken your immune system and interfere with healing or fighting against infections
- Facial trauma or accidental injury that impacts your teeth and implants
- Certain medications that can disrupt the osseointegration process
- Medical conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or diabetes, which can make it more difficult to heal or for your implants to fuse to your jawbone properly
How to Ensure Successful Dental Implants
While dental implants offer a stable, natural-looking, and longer-lasting solution compared to traditional restorations, they’ll only work so long as you maintain them. To make the most of your brand-new pearly whites, you’ll want to first ensure that you undergo the placement procedure via a skilled oral surgeon. After your implants have successfully integrated with your jawbone, you’ll then want to implement strict dental hygiene, which involves brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and rinsing with mouthwash often. Make sure to also wear proper mouthguards, maintain a nutritious diet, and schedule regular checkups with your dentist every six months.
By replacing your missing teeth with dental implants, you can expect to enjoy your fully restored bite for several decades to a lifetime! Speak with your dentist if you’re interested, and they’ll be glad to assess your situation to determine if this is the best option for you.
About the Author
Dr. Michael Michel earned his dental doctorate from the University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Dentistry. He’s also a member of several prominent groups like the American Dental Association, the Kansas Dental Association, and the American College of Dentists. He provides a wide range of comprehensive services, including dental implants. If you’d like to schedule a consultation, visit his website or call 785-783-6293.