Compared to other prosthetics, dental implants are pretty successful in the long term. In fact, their success rate ten years after placement is about 95%! Before you try them, though, you should consider the reasons for such high effectiveness. Doing so will help confirm whether treatment is right for you. Luckily, your local Long Beach dentist is here to explain things. Read on to learn three key factors that impact dental implant success.
They’re Often Placed Early
As it happens, dental implants don’t benefit from a wait-and-see approach. Once a dentist knows you can’t save a tooth or it’s already gone, they’ll try to place an implant as soon as possible.
You see, your jaw erodes the longer you go without a tooth. Should it deteriorate enough, your jawbone won’t be able to support an implant. (The tissue loss can be corrected with a bone graft, but you’re better off if that option isn’t needed.) Therefore, a dentist will strive to place implants soon after you’ve lost any teeth. That way, the odds of the surgery’s success will rise.
Qualified Dentists Do the Surgery
The treating dentist’s skill is the biggest factor in your implants’ success rate. The more experience and training they have, the likelier they are to provide quality service.
In hindsight, this fact is only natural. Dentists with a background in implants better know how to place them. The same applies if they stay updated on modern placement methods. Meanwhile, those with only a weekend’s training won’t have the necessary expertise.
When getting implants, then, ask your dentist about their education. In particular, focus on their knowledge of the implant process and postgraduate studies.
Patients Commit to Them
Of course, it isn’t just dentists who play a role in implant success. Patient commitment is another big element. If you don’t care for the prosthetic teeth well, they’ll fail early. Fortunately, maintaining implants isn’t too hard. You only have to do the following:
- See the Dentist Often – To ensure your implants work properly, attend follow-up visits and regular check-ups. A dentist can then diagnose and fix issues that could threaten a new smile.
- Practice Good Oral Hygiene – Implants don’t get cavities, but they’ll fail if your other teeth or gums get infected. So, remember to brush twice daily, floss once daily, and rinse with mouthwash.
- Avoid Bad Oral Habits – Smoking can cause gum disease, which puts you at risk of implant failure.
Ultimately, dental implant success isn’t hard to achieve. By considering the above factors, you can make a restored smile last a long while!
About the Practice
Dr. Glen’s Happy Teeth is based in Long Beach, NY. Led by Dr. Glen Shanock, our practice offers comprehensive dentistry for kids and adults alike. To that end, we perform a variety of preventive, cosmetic, and restorative treatments, as well as emergency dental care. Of course, we also provide truly amazing dental implants! For more information or to book a visit, you can reach us on our website or by phone at (516)-431-5855.