One of many great things about living in modern times is that missing teeth can be replaced with a variety of different options, including dental implants. Unlike tooth replacements of the past, dental implants have a long lifespan and offer numerous benefits that you cannot get from anything else. But how long exactly do dental implants in Springfield last? Continue reading to learn more about their lifespan and what you can do to make them last as long as possible.
How Long Do Dental Implants Typically Last?
You have probably heard implants be called a permanent tooth replacement option. While they are long lasting, they aren’t made to last forever. However, they can last upwards of 25 years with proper care. Their life depends on a few different factors:
- Maintenance
- Location
- Gum health
- Overall health
- Skills and experience of your dentist
How Can You Make Your Dental Implants Last?
The good news is that a lot of the factors that contribute to the life of your dental implants are completely in your control. A dentist in Springfield shares some things you can do to increase the longevity of your implants so they can last a lifetime:
- Excellent Oral Hygiene: Just like your natural teeth, your dental implants need to be brushed and flossed every day to keep your gums healthy. If you develop periodontal disease from poor oral hygiene, you are more likely to end up with a dental implant failure.
- Proper Use: Your dental implants are there to help you chew your food, maintain the integrity of your jawbone, hold in saliva, and smile. They are not there to help you open bottles, rip through stubborn packaging, chomp down on ice cubes, or bite on your fingernails. Using them improperly could lead to a dental implant failure.
- Choose an Experienced Dentist: Before you get any treatment or procedure, you want to make sure that your doctor is skilled an experienced. This goes for dental care as well. Figure out what kind of experience and training your dentist has. It is also a good idea to check out some patient reviews so that you know what to expect.
- Visit Your Dentist: Regular cleanings and checkups are necessary in order to prevent oral health issues from occurring in the future. If a problem occurs in relation to your implant, it is crucial that your dentist catches and addresses it as soon as they can.
Implants are quite an investment, but they have a variety of amazing benefits, including the fact that they are long lasting. With proper care, you may even have them for the rest of your life.
About the Author
Dr. Eric L. Tolliver earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery from the University of Missouri—Kansas City. He was accepted into a residency program for Advanced Education in General Dentistry where he received comprehensive training in implant dentistry. For more information on dental implants or to schedule a consultation, visit his website or call (417) 887-5757.