If you have ever lost a tooth, then you know what a hit this can be to your self-confidence. Having a gap in your grin can keep you from smiling around others and may make you feel self-conscious in social situations. Fortunately, dentists offer a range of tooth replacement options. Dental implants are one of the most popular because they are incredibly reliable. Continue reading to learn about three reasons why the 95% dental implant success rate is so high.
Reason #1: Dental Implants Preserve Your Jawbone
While losing one or more teeth leaves gaps in your smile, it can also have adverse effects on your oral health. The jawbone in the area where the tooth used to be will no longer receive the stimulation it needs. This will lead to jawbone erosion, with patients often experiencing a 25% loss of bone density in the first year alone. As a result, the jawbone will become weaker and will also change your facial shape.
Dental implants are inserted directly through the gums and into the jawbone, which makes them the only tooth replacement option that replaces the roots as well as the crown. This provides the jawbone with enough stimulation to remain healthy and strong.
Reason #2: Dental Implants Look & Work Like Real Teeth
Another thing that contributes to the dental implant success rate is how well they work. Once inserted into the jawbone, dental implants will fuse with it through a process called osseointegration. This process takes four to six months and makes the implants as sturdy as your natural teeth.
The restoration placed on top of the implant, which is often a dental crown or bridge, will be color matched to the surrounding teeth and made out of a material that mimics the way your enamel reflects light. Implants also allow you to regain at least 80% of your bite power. Your implants will look lifelike and function as well as your natural teeth.
Reason #3: Dental Implants Are Long-Lasting
With proper care, you can expect your dental implants to last 10 to 15 years. In some cases, they may even last a lifetime. There is a range of ways that you can extend the lifespan of your dental implants, including:
- Brushing your teeth – Brush once in the morning and once at night for two minutes each time. Use a toothbrush with soft bristles to avoid enamel damage and toothpaste that contains fluoride to strengthen your smile against decay.
- Flossing every night – Floss your teeth every day after your last meal to remove plaque and food particles from between them.
- Visiting your dentist – Attend biannual dental visits for checkups and cleanings.
- Quitting bad habits – Quit bad oral habits like drinking alcohol excessively, smoking cigarettes, consuming too much sugar, and using your teeth to open bottles and packages since these things may damage your teeth or implants.
As you can see, several things affect the dental implant success rate. With proper care, you can keep your implants in good condition and enjoy a smile that lasts a lifetime!
About the Practice
Dr. Shane Smith leads a passionate team of Jonesboro dental health professionals who truly love what they do. They administer a variety of exceptional treatments, including dental implants. They can also give you advice on how to make your new smile last for years to come. To set up an appointment with Dr. Smith or for more information on the dental implant success rate, visit his website or call his office at (870) 932-2644 today.