If you didn’t already know, dental implants are very successful at restoring smiles. They work so well, in fact, that their long-term success rate stands at over 95%. That said, perhaps you want to know the reasons behind this staggering success. After all, getting such details would help you learn whether implants are your best option. It’s a good thing, then, that your dentist in Dublin can give you the scoop. Here’s a summary of three essential elements of dental implant success.
Good (Prior) Oral Health
As it turns out, implants can only succeed when a patient’s oral health is good. Otherwise, they either can’t be placed or won’t stay secure.
The issue boils down to how implant fusion works. Namely, your mouth needs to be healthy for bone tissue to grow around the new teeth. A condition like gum disease would attack your implant and erode the bone that supports it. From there, your prosthetic would loosen until it ultimately fails.
Given these facts, most dentists suggest treating prior dental issues before you get implants. That way, they can ensure your restorations fuse correctly.
Qualified Implant Dentist
Of course, a healthy mouth won’t mean much without someone to give you treatment. Therefore, successful placement also depends on having a qualified implant dentist.
You see, studies show that dental experience is crucial to raising making these restorations successful. This makes intuitive sense — those trained to place implants will do better than those who aren’t. As such, ask your prospective dentist about their education and background beforehand. If possible, try to find one who’s a member of the American Board of Oral Implantology.
A Commitment to Treatment
You need to be committed to treatment if you want effective dental implants. In other words, you must give your prosthetics daily care and maintenance.
Thankfully, keeping implants clean and usable isn’t too hard. You can care for them like natural teeth — brush them twice daily, floss them once daily, and rinse them with mouthwash as needed. The only other matter is to attend your regular dental checkups and cleanings. In doing so, your dentist can diagnose and treat issues that might threaten the implants.
As you can see, implant success requires various features. To keep your restored smile, then, make sure to remember the ones above!
About the Author
Dr. Eric Buck is a dentist based in Dublin, OH, having earned his DDS from the Ohio State University College of Dentistry. He’s also a member of the American Dental Association and the Ohio Dental Association. Given his background, he specializes in comprehensive dentistry that spans preventive, cosmetic, and restorative dental treatments. Dr. Buck currently practices at Distinctive Smiles and is reachable on his website or by phone at (614)-792-1800.