Before implants, your dentist may have used dental bridges or partial dentures to replace missing teeth. These treatment options were not permanent and required replacement after 10-15 years. Dental implants are toted as a permanent tooth replacement option. Surgically placed into your jaw bone replacing the root of your missing tooth, dental implants provide a stable platform for a crown, a bridge or even a complete denture. While studies show dental implants can last a lifetime, ultimately many factors can affect the longevity of your dental implant:
Because the naturally occuring bacteria in your mouth can cause plaque to accumulate on your dental implant just like it does on your natural teeth, proper home dental hygiene practices are critical to the longevity of your dental implants. When bacteria accumulates on your dental implant it can cause inflammation (peri-implantitis) or infection which could lead to your implant to becoming loose or even failing which would require it to be removed.
At Excellence in Dentistry in Fort Lauderdale, Dr. Nancy Rotroff and Dr. Gerard Wasselle use only the highest quality implant materials to provide the best possible outcomes for our patients. Our dentists have years of experience and have honed their skills in implant restorations.
The success of your dental implant depends heavily on the bone density at the implant site. Your oral surgeon will assess your bone density and discuss the liklihood of success in placing a dental implant. Immediately following extraction of your tooth or if bone loss has occured, a bone graft may be placed to increase your bone density to provide a proper foundation for your dental implant.
Just as smoking and tobacco is detrimental to your oral health, it can reduce the lifespan of your dental implant. Smoking decreases the amount of oxygen in the blood and thereby hinders the healing process after surgery and increases the risk of infection. Other lifestyle habits such as overconsumption of alcohol or a diet high in added sugar can further poor oral health and affect implant longevity.
Just as with your natural teeth, regular dental check-ups are critical to your oral health by monitoring your teeth and gum tissue as well as the health of your dental implant. If any issues arise, Dr. Rotroff or Dr. Wasselle will identify and address potential issues early, preventing complications that may impact your implant’s longevity.
Missing one or more teeth? Call Excellence in Dentistry today at 954-928-1666 to schedule a consultation to learn if dental implants can help you restore your smile. Dr. Rotroff and Dr. Wasselle are committed to helping you restore the health and aesthetics of your smile. Schedule a consultation in our office on E. Commercial Boulevard in Fort Lauderdale and take the first step toward a lifelong smile.
