What Makes a Dental Implant Last So Long?
March 4, 2020
Did you know that dental implants had a success rating of over 90%? In addition, they have been known to last for several decades, possibly even a lifetime. In comparison, bridges and removable dentures tend to need replacement every 5 to 10 years. What makes dental implants last so long, and when should you talk to your Kansas City, MO, dentist about them?
The Implant Difference
Often, prosthetics are held in place with crowns, metal clasps, or suction. While effective, this doesn’t stimulate the growth of jawbone tissue, which usually breaks down following tooth loss. You see, the body suspends the flow of calcium and phosphorus the jawbone after a tooth is lost. Without these nutrients, the structure loses mass and density, and these changes to the shade of the jaw ridge mean a prosthetic must be replaced every few years.
However, dental implants are created from titanium, a biocompatible material, and actually inserted into the jawbone. The body sees them as real tooth roots, bonding with them through a process known as osseointegration and stimulating the growth of jawbone tissue. Your new teeth could last for decades, even a lifetime in some cases, providing a more secure replacement tooth.
Creating a Lifelike Restoration
But what about the visible aspects of your new tooth? Well, following osseointegration, we add an abutment to the tooth and attach a dental crown. We custom-make the crown from materials like ceramic, which are strong and translucent like tooth enamel. We even shade them to better match nearby teeth. If you have several missing teeth, then multiple dental implants could support a custom bridge or denture, providing again a longer-lasting and more dependable solution to tooth loss.
Routine Care For Longevity and Improved Oral Health
To help them last and stay bright, you should care for them as you would natural teeth. Also brush and floss them with the rest of the smile. Your bridges and dentures will be fixed in place, so you can’t remove them for cleaning or speaking. Be sure to make time to see us for routine checkups and cleanings as well, so we can monitor your smile and make sure your new teeth continue to provide dependable tooth replacement. If you have any questions about addressing tooth loss, then contact our team today to learn more.
Do You Have Questions About Implant Dentistry?
If you have suffered the loss of one or more of your natural teeth, then talk to our team about options to restore the health, function, and beauty of your smile. To learn more about implant dentistry, then schedule a consultation by calling Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry of Kansas City, MO, today at 816-427-4018.