Dental implants represent one of the best ways to replace missing teeth. Not only can dental implants restore the aesthetics of your smile, but they can also provide you with full functionality, allowing you to continue enjoying your favorite foods.
There are a number of reasons for the popularity of dental implants, but one of the foremost reasons is their high success rate. Dental implants boast a success rate of 90 to 95 percent, which should inspire a lot of confidence among patients.
The question is, what are some of the reasons why implants can fail? Consider a few of the factors that can influence dental implant success rates.
Which Factors Affect the Success of Dental Implants?
Bone Mass
Before you have implants placed, your oral surgeon will assess your jaw, ensuring you have a decent amount of bone mass in place. This bone mass is necessary to anchor the implants in place, and without it, you may not qualify for implant surgery at all. Thankfully, a procedure known as bone grafting can regenerate bone tissue, making you a viable candidate for dental implants.
Smoking
Smoking is bad for your health just in general and can be especially disadvantageous for those who have brand new dental implants. Smoking actually slows your body’s healing process, which can increase your risk of infection and implant failure.
Oral Hygiene
You will need to take care of your dental implants just as you would your natural teeth, specifically by brushing and flossing daily and visiting the dentist regularly. Dental neglect can increase your risk of bacterial buildup, infection, and ultimately the failure of your dental implants.
Gum Health
If you have any untreated gum disease, it can increase your risk of peri-implantitis, an inflammatory condition that can cause implant failure. As such, it is crucial to have your gum disease treated before you have dental implants placed. Ongoing oral hygiene can help keep your gum disease from recurring.
Eating Habits
You should reach a point where you can enjoy all of your favorite foods. During the initial recovery process, however, you will need to start with liquids, move toward soft foods, and carefully avoid anything too hard or crunchy. Trauma to your implants can cause damage, particularly during the initial recovery period.
How to Maximize Your Odds of Dental Implant Success
As you consider having dental implant surgery, there are a few steps you can take to maximize your odds of success. One is to ensure you choose a qualified surgeon who will take the time to qualify you for a safe and successful procedure, while also talking with you about potential risk factors. Additionally, make sure you carefully follow all aftercare instructions provided to you, including dietary guidelines and tips on oral hygiene.
For most patients, dental implants are totally successful, and with the right hygiene, they can last a lifetime. If you have any questions about dental implant surgery in the Mobile, AL community, we invite you to contact our oral surgery practice at any time.
