If you are considering an implant supported bridge because you are missing one or more teeth, it is worth stating that tooth loss should be repaired quickly. A missing tooth not only immediately affects the appearance of your smile if it is in the front area, but also the functioning of your bite regardless of where the gap is. In addition, over time, the adjacent and opposite teeth push into the space left behind by the missing tooth, which can alter your bite and the alignment of your teeth and cause oral health issues and make it harder to maintain good oral hygiene. Over time, there will also be other changes in the toothless area of the jawbone. A depression caused by bone loss can form in the jawbone, altering your appearance as well as having an effect on the health of your facial structure and bones. The only way to prevent this bone loss is through a dental implant, onto which a prosthetic or artificial tooth or bridge will be placed. An implant is an artificial tooth root, usually made of titanium, that is surgically implanted into your jawbone in the area of the missing tooth. Individual artificial teeth or dental bridges that remain perfectly in place can be built on top of the implants.
Once it is healed, the dental implant itself feels like your own tooth and is an integral part of you. Implants can last 10, 15 or more years and even a lifetime. The longevity of your implant and implant supported bridge will depend greatly on how well you take care of it after the process is done. It is worth noting that both the implant (the artificial root) and the crown (the artificial tooth) can be replaced, if necessary.
How can you influence the duration of a dental implant?
An implant is an expensive purchase, which usually increases the motivation to take good care of it. If you want your implant to last as long as possible, your dentist will recommend the following:
- Practice good oral hygiene: The implant should be treated just like other teeth - if not even more diligently. After an implant, the best thing you can do is brush and floss your teeth at least two times a day and use a mouthwash. Many dentists will recommend an electric toothbrush be used on implants, as they tend to clean more gently yet efficiently.
- Get help if you grind your teeth: Grinding your teeth puts stress and wear on the teeth, including the implant. If you grind your teeth, you should talk to your dentist about how to protect your teeth every night with an individual bite guard.
- Visit your dentist: We recommend visiting your dentist regularly or at least twice a year for cleanings and checkups. Nothing can replace a professional dental cleaning, so this is important for your smile and your implant.
- Take good care of your overall health: Certain diseases, such as unchecked diabetes, can have an effect on the lifespan of your implant. Make sure you visit your doctor, eat a good diet, and talk to your doctor or dentist if you have any health concerns that might affect your implant.