In order to be suitable candidates for dental implant placement, patients must have adequate bone at the implant site. This is essential for dental implant durability, as there must be enough bone to support osseointegration, the process by which the bone bonds with the titanium implant. At your dental implant consultation, the oral surgeon will take x-rays to assess the quality of your bone. If you have delayed dental implant placement for a long period of time after your initial tooth loss, your jawbone may have eroded substantially. In such cases, a preliminary bone graft in advance of dental implant placement can improve your chances of long-term success with your dental implants.
You should also closely follow the post-operative instructions provided by your oral surgeon to reduce the risks of complications following dental implant placement, which can interfere with the osseointegration process and cause premature dental implant failure as well. This is another important step to preserve your dental implants.
Patients have a major amount of responsibility in maintaining their dental implants to ensure their longevity, but fortunately this task requires little more than a generally thorough oral hygiene regimen and adequate professional care on a regular basis. Be sure to brush twice a day, for two minutes each time, and floss daily in order to minimize oral bacteria that can attack your gums and bone and disrupt the bond between the bone and the dental implants. Schedule professional cleanings and dental exams at least every six months, too.
After investing your time and money in your dental implants, you undoubtedly want to reap the benefits for years to come. If you are unclear on what you need to do to maintain a healthy smile with your dental implants, don’t hesitate to ask for clarification from one of our specialists. Contact our team at Commonwealth Oral & Facial Surgery today!