What Makes Dental Implants Last?

Removable dentures tend to need replacement every five to ten years, and a bridge could last only as long as 15 years. However, dental implants may last for decades to come, and could even last for a lifetime in some cases with proper care and attention. But what makes a dental implant last so long? Your Cleveland, TX, dentist explains in today’s blog!

Bonding with Your Jawbone

The key is the fact that a dental implant doesn’t need crowns attached to natural teeth, adhesives, or suction to stay in place. They don’t require metal clasps either. Instead, the post portion, a screw-like device made from biocompatible titanium, is inserted into the jawbone through oral surgery. The post then bonds with the jawbone like a natural root, a process that stimulates the growth of bone tissue and allows it to stay in place for decades to come. This process, known as osseointegration, not only reduces your new tooth, but helps prevent negative changes to facial structure or further tooth loss, which could otherwise develop due to missing teeth.

Crowns and Dentures

But what about the visible parts of your new teeth, the parts people see when you smile and laugh, and the parts that allow you to resume eating your favorite foods again? For an individual dental implant, we will custom-make a crown and attach it to the post with an abutment. The crown will look natural, and be made from strong and durable materials. If you have multiple missing teeth, abutments could be used to secure a bridge, partial denture, or even a full set of dentures. These prosthetics will never slip when you eat or speak, and they will not require removal for cleaning or soaking. Instead, they provide a durable and secure new smile.

Keeping Them Strong

Your new teeth are just as susceptible the impacts of gum disease and other factors as natural ones. Which mean routine care could help protect teeth both new and old from becoming lost. You should start your day by brushing your teeth for about two minutes with a fluoride toothpaste, and then do the same before bed. You also need to floss every evening too, and try to cut back on the sugary and starchy foods and drinks that feed harmful oral bacteria. Make time to see us for a checkup and cleaning too, so we can keep an eye on your smile and remove harmful plaque and tartar buildup. If you have any questions, give us a call today!

Your Cleveland, TX Dentist’s Office Discusses Rebuilding Your Smile

Cleveland Family Dentistry in Cleveland, TX wants to help you enjoy a complete smile again. To find out more about implant dentistry, then contact our office at (281) 592-1234 to schedule your appointment today.