Dental implants have a 95% success rate after initial placement. This is good news for anyone wanting permanent tooth replacement. However, as unlikely as it is, these prosthetics can fail. If you don’t take the necessary steps to keep them clean and healthy and keep practicing harmful habits, your investment may be wasted. Don’t let your smile go astray; instead, here are three lifestyle changes you can make to ensure long-term dental implant success.
Give Up Smoking & Excessive Alcohol Consumption
Whether you’ve been smoking and drinking for decades or you recently picked up the habit, it’s time to kick it for good. Smoking reduces blood flow, making it harder for your gums to heal after oral surgery. This can affect osseointegration and lead to implant failure. Excessive alcohol consumption can also hinder healing and pose a threat to your implants’ lifespan.
Ask about cessation resources and ways to kick these harmful habits for good. Doing so will prove beneficial for your dental implants and long-term health.
Manage Your Overall Health
During your consultation, your dentist will explain whether your medical conditions will impact your dental implants. In most cases, as long as you manage it, you should be fine. This means talking to your doctor if you have diabetes and keeping your blood sugar stable, which promotes faster healing and reduces infection risk.
The same applies to bone conditions and certain medications. Osteoporosis can prevent implants from fusing with the jawbone, reducing their stability over time. Certain medicines can also slow healing, so talk to your doctor about adjusting your medications if needed.
Boost Your Oral Hygiene Routine
Real and artificial teeth differ in many ways, but one thing remains the same: the need for good oral hygiene. Regular brushing, flossing, and toothbrush replacement are necessary, no matter how many teeth you have. If you got dental implants because you didn’t take proper care of your smile, it’s time to rethink your routine.
Brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Floss at least once a day to effectively clean between your teeth. Rinse with an antimicrobial mouthwash to reduce bacteria and the risk of infection around the implant. Replace your toothbrush (manual or electric brush head) every 4 months to prevent frayed bristles and reduce the risk of germ-related illnesses.
Healthy habits and positive lifestyle changes can give your dental implants what they need to succeed. With better oral hygiene, avoiding tobacco and alcohol, and managing your overall health conditions, you can better protect your investment and enjoy a longer-lasting smile.
About the Practice
Lifetime Dental Care provides the world-class care you deserve, thanks to our team of highly experienced dentists. We offer superior dental implant treatment in our Hays office, making sure each patient leaves with a life-changing, natural-looking, fully restored smile. No matter how many teeth you’re missing, these prosthetics deliver aesthetics, function, and stability. If you’re considering them to fill the gaps in your smile, visit our website or call (785) 992–0345 to schedule a consultation.