Dental implants are designed to withstand significant pressure and tension over time. They are durable and strong, but they can still fail depending on the situation. If you want to keep permanent teeth for the rest of your life, you’ll need to change the following lifestyle habits.
You Must Maintain Good Oral Hygiene
For dental implants to last, you must practice good oral hygiene each day. This includes brushing twice daily with non-abrasive fluoride toothpaste and using a soft-bristle toothbrush. You must also floss once a day to remove plaque and tartar and use an ADA-approved mouthwash.
Regular six-month dental exams and cleanings with your dentist are also essential for early detection of potential problems.
You Must Eat a Balanced Diet
Dental implants offer greater freedom when it comes to the foods you can eat; however, incorporating nutrient-rich options can be beneficial for your gum health and any natural teeth that remain part of your smile. Your diet should consist of leafy greens, other calcium-rich foods, lean proteins, fresh fruits and vegetables, and water.
Avoid hard, sticky, or crunchy foods, as well as sodas and energy drinks, to help protect your real and artificial teeth from potential damage, decay, and gum disease.
You Should Manage Any Health Conditions
If you have an autoimmune disorder, diabetes, or struggle with proper bone health, you will need to speak with your physician about how to manage your condition. These issues can cause dental implant failure; however, by monitoring your blood sugar levels, ensuring you are taking the appropriate medication, and treating bone density issues such as osteoporosis, you can avoid problems associated with your dental implants.
You Should Give Up Bad Habits
Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption are two lifestyle habits you will need to give up when deciding to replace your missing teeth with dental implants.
Smoking and tobacco use increase the risk of gum disease and infections. If your immune system is suppressed because you continue to smoke, your implants may not fuse with the bone during osseointegration, which can lead to failure. Excessive alcohol consumption can also hinder your ability to heal effectively.
Dental implants are known to have a lifespan of 30+ years, and many cases report successful wear for a lifetime. By making the necessary changes, you can improve your chances of maintaining a longer-lasting permanent smile.
About the Author
Dr. Julia White is a trustworthy and expertly trained dentist with nearly a decade of experience. Immersed in dentistry from a young age, she enrolled at the Medical College of Virginia through Virginia Commonwealth University and earned her dental degree. Now, alongside her husband and fellow dentist, Dr. Brandon White, the two help patients with a wide range of smile issues, including tooth loss. Working closely with local dental implant specialists, they restore and rebuild confidence, aesthetics, and oral comfort every day. If you would like to schedule a consultation to discuss your tooth replacement options, visit our website or call us at (540) 587-5707.