What are the Success Rates of Dental Implants
If you are missing one or more teeth, your research has no doubt led you to dental implants as one of the best options for dental restoration.
A dental implant is a permanently placed device that closely replicates the look, structure, and function of a natural tooth. Many patients prefer this dental restoration option because they are comfortable, provide a natural bite, and are indistinguishable from natural teeth. One of the additional major advantages to dental patients is that implants help to stimulate jawbone growth, which helps protect the rest of the teeth. Not all restorations are capable of providing this level of aesthetics and functionality. The American Academy of Implant Dentistry (AAID) calls dental implants the closest you can get to healthy, natural teeth.
Dental Implants Have Proven Success Rates
For patients who are good candidates for dental implants, one of the first considerations is the success rate of the procedure. Most are surprised to learn that modern dental implant surgery has been around for 50 years and has a long history of success. AAID notes that around 3 million people in the US currently have implants, and this number increases by about 500,000 every year.
The success rates of dental implants vary, but, in general, dental implants have a success rate between 90 to 98%. Like natural teeth, with proper care, they can last a lifetime.
How to Ensure High Success Rates in Dental Implants
Even though dental implants have a very high success rate, it is important to understand several key factors that go into ensuring long-term success. Here are the top 6 factors.
Timely Placement
While dental implants might be an option with patients whose tooth has been missing for some time, it is far more beneficial to replace the tooth as soon as it becomes missing or as soon as it becomes clear that the present tooth cannot be saved. Once the tooth is missing for some time, the jawbone shrinks, and a bone graft may be necessary before implant placement.
Infection
Infection can hinder or stop the healing process after implant placement. Your dental implant specialist will prescribe an antimicrobial rinse and antibiotics to mitigate this risk. Proper after-care can help prevent infection and reduce the risk of failure.
Smoking
For the procedure to be successful, the jawbone needs proper blood flow to facilitate healing. Smoking greatly reduces the amount of oxygen to the surgical site which hinders the healing process. Your implant surgeon may recommend a smoking cessation program before placing implants.
Diabetes
Uncontrolled diabetes, likewise, contributes to poor healing and increased susceptibility to infection. If you are a diabetic, your A1C level must be below a certain level before surgery could be considered.
Commitment to Maintenance and Oral Hygiene
A commitment to the surgical process is not enough. Just like with natural teeth, dental implants need daily care to ensure their success and longevity. The patient must maintain the proper oral hygiene of the entire mouth to reduce the risk of periodontal infection.
Blakeney Dental
We believe you deserve the best care possible from highly skilled and compassionate professionals, and that is exactly what you receive from our doctor and the professional team at Blakeney Dental. Your oral health is our top priority and the entire staff is committed to providing compassionate care in a comfortable and inviting environment.
Specializing in the art of beautiful smiles, Blakeney Dental provides services including:
By following our guidelines and asking great questions, you will enjoy great success with your dental implants. If you are considering this or other tooth replacement options, contact us at (704) 386-6795 to schedule a consultation.