Are you missing one or more teeth? Whether it’s because of an accident or oral health problems, having big gaps in your smile can make your beam look incomplete and less lovely. That’s why dentists offer a range of tooth replacement options, including dental implants. These titanium screws replace the roots of missing teeth for a durable solution to missing pearly whites. But how long do they last? Continue reading to find out!
How Long Do Dental Implants Last?
Dental implants can be expected to last an average of 15 years, but some patients manage to make them last upward of 30 years. This depends heavily on how well you care for your smile. If you don’t practice excellent oral hygiene, your implant lifespan will likely be shorter. Additionally, if you don’t eat a balanced diet, this may lead to oral health problems that can jeopardize your implants as well as your remaining teeth.
4 Ways to Extend the Lifespan of Dental Implants
It’s important to take good care of your dental implants so that they last as long as possible. You can do this by:
- Practicing good oral hygiene – Brush your teeth twice per day. Do so for two minutes each time. Use toothpaste that contains fluoride to prevent enamel damage. You should also use a toothbrush with soft bristles. Additionally, floss nightly to remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth.
- Avoid bad oral health habits – This includes smoking, drinking excessive amounts of alcohol, and using your teeth to open bottles or packages.
- Eat a mouth-healthy diet – This includes fish, dairy products, lean meat, nuts, and fresh fruits and vegetables. Additionally, avoid sweet, starchy, acidic, or sticky foods and drinks when possible.
- Visit your dentist – See your dentist twice yearly for checkups and cleanings. This will allow them to check on your implants and make sure that there aren’t any issues developing.
About the Practice
Wolfe Dental is led by Dr. Ben Wolfe, Dr. Brian Bardeloza, and Dr. Curtis Wahlen. Along with their Hillsboro team, they offer patients an array of effective treatments to keep their smiles healthy and strong. This includes dental implants to replace missing teeth. They can also give you advice on how to make your implants last as long as possible. If you want to learn more or to make an appointment, visit Wolfe Dental’s website or call them at (713) 781-6873.