How Long Do Dental Implants in Plattsburgh Last?

One question we often hear about dental implants in Plattsburgh is how long the restoration typically lasts. The answer is that implants can last from 20 years to a lifetime with reasonable care. This includes brushing and flossing both the implants and remaining natural teeth, avoiding tobacco and illicit drugs, consuming alcohol only in moderation, and eating a nutritious diet. Your implant dentist may have additional suggestions for you at the time of your appointment.

Why Dental Implants Can Go the Distance

The longevity of dental implants may come as a surprise to many dental patients, especially those who have had other forms of restoration such as adhesive dentures or bridgework. While there’s nothing wrong with these other approaches, in most cases they cannot equal implants in terms of patient comfort and satisfaction.

That’s because dental implants are the only form of smile restoration that emulates the structure of healthy natural teeth. A natural tooth is made up of two parts: the visible section, also known as the crown, and the section beneath the gum line, also known as the roots. At the heart of every dental implant is a small titanium fixture embedded in the jawbone, just like the root of a natural tooth.

This breakthrough innovation is what gives dental implants such remarkable resilience. Unlike traditional adhesive dentures, they cannot come loose accidentally or contribute to jaw bone erosion. Unlike crowns and bridges, they require no dental adhesive or support from surrounding teeth. Dental implants can address a number of dental issues, from a single missing tooth to complete loss of all natural teeth.

How to Care for Dental Implants

None of this means that you can ignore basic dental hygiene once your implants are in place. To the contrary, it’s important to follow basic self-care steps such as these:

• Brushing and flossing any remaining natural teeth as well as your implants. This means brushing at least twice a day and flossing at least once daily. You should use a nonabrasive toothpaste and soft bristle toothbrush.
• Minimizing sugar consumption. The bacteria that cause tooth decay and gum disease will remain active in your mouth for the rest of your life. These harmful microorganisms thrive on sugar and other simple carbs. That’s why dentists caution their patients against overindulging in sweets.
• Avoiding tobacco in all forms. Cigarettes and other tobacco products contain toxic substances that contribute to jaw bone erosion and other serious health issues.
• Consuming alcohol only in moderation (if at all). Not only is alcohol corrosive, in large quantities it can interfere with your body’s ability to absorb nutrients from your food.
• Eating a sensible diet. This means getting plenty of lean protein, healthy unsaturated fats, complex carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
• Staying physically active. A strong, healthy body is better able to maintain all of its parts, including the bones that support both natural teeth and dental implants.

Your periodontist in Plattsburgh may recommend added steps, especially for patients who are using an implant-supported denture. Write down any questions you may have for him or her and bring these with you to the appointment. With proper care, dental implants can be the key to a happier, healthier life.

About the Author

Dr. Gordon Davis is a skilled implant dentist and periodontist. He’s a proud member of the American Dental Association and the American Academy of Periodontology. You can reach his office online or by calling (518) 563-0040.