Dental implants are the longest-lasting tooth replacement option. Made of titanium, a metal stronger than steel but lighter than aluminum, dental implants are designed to last for a lifetime.
Titanium is a biocompatible material that is unlikely to be rejected by the body, but that’s not all. Beyond simply accepting an implant, the body works to secure dental implants in place with osteoblasts and connective tissue, allowing implants to replace the roots of missing teeth and prevent issues such as jaw collapse. What’s more, once accepted by the jaw, there is minimal risk of an implant coming loose or falling out.
Of course, minimal risk is not the same as no risk, and there are some instances where an implant may need replacing. This often occurs before an implant has been secured with osteoblasts, creating what is known as a failed implant, but it can also occur years after an implant has been in place for years.
Reasons you may need to replace a dental implant include:
- Trauma that breaks or loosens an implant
- Advanced periodontitis
- Bone disorders such as osteoporosis
It is important to note that while a dental implant can last forever, a dental crown cannot. Though some can last longer, most crowns need to be replaced after 15 to 20 years.
Can Dental Implant Loss be Prevented?
While avoiding injury or disorders of the bone is not always possible, you can help protect your dental implants through proper oral hygiene, which includes brushing at least twice a day and flossing at least once. Optimally, you should brush after every meal and snack and floss both morning and night to help prevent gum disease.
In addition to the care you take of your teeth at home, visiting our office twice yearly for professional cleanings is essential. During these visits, we thoroughly clean the teeth and gums, further reducing periodontitis risks. We also check the integrity of your crowns and implants during these visits to determine if additional work is needed.
If you are missing one or more teeth, we would love to discuss your replacement options. Give us a call at 941-351-4468 to schedule your visit today. The Smile Centre is located in Sarasota. We serve all nearby areas of Florida.