If you are currently missing one or more teeth, you might be avoiding replacing them because you do not want to have to wear a partial denture. New technology has come out that is allowing patients of all ages to quickly and effectively replace missing teeth. Dental implants are titanium rods that are surgically embedded into the jawbone. Over the course of just a couple of months, the implants fuse with the bone and can replace the roots of the missing tooth.

What are Implants?

Implants are used to replace one or more missing teeth. They undergo a process known as osseointegration, where they actually bond with the bone after surgery. This process can take anywhere from three to six months, though the time will vary from one patient to another. You will then have a special restoration made for the top of the implant. This might be a single crown, fixed bridge or an entire overdenture.

How Long Will New Implants Last?

The reason so many patients have chosen implants, when compared to other restorative options, is because of how long dental implants last. These implants are designed to last a lifetime. Most patients have implants that are several decades old and still going strong. The reason your implant is a permanent part of your smile is because of the process of osseointegration and fusion with the bone. It can withstand a lot of pressure and force each day, so it will stay in place, regardless of what you eat or drink.

Tips for Maintaining New Implants

There are a few things that could undermine the stability of your new implant. The first, and most common, is bone loss around the jaw. Bone loss is often caused by gum disease, so treating and preventing gum disease is very important. Another thing that can cause the implant to crack, break or become loose is facial or oral trauma. This is why it is important to wear a mouth guard whenever playing close contact sports. With normal wear and tear, you can expect the new implant to last for the rest of your life, and you will not need to worry about getting it repaired or replaced with a new post.

If you would like to learn more about dental implants, contact us today so we can get you in for a consultation appointment at your earliest convenience.