Dental implants are the ideal way to replace lost teeth because they look, work and feel just like the real thing, and they can often last for several decades or even for life if they receive excellent care. However, the material your implant is made from can have an effect on its lifespan. Here’s a quick look at a few common materials used to construct dental implants and how they can help determine the longevity of your prosthetic appliance.
Titanium
Titanium is a metal known for possessing remarkable strength while being unusually lightweight, and it is frequently used to construct such marvels of engineering as skyscrapers and fighter jets. This fascinating metal also possesses the amazing ability to fuse with living bone tissue, which makes it invaluable for the manufacturing of many prosthetic devices. A titanium dental implant will fuse with the structure of the jawbone through a process called osseointegration, creating a sturdy foundation that allows the restoration mounted upon it to function exactly like real teeth. This strong bond is also associated with remarkably long appliance lifespans since titanium implants may last for three decades or more.
Zirconia
Zirconia is a material that looks more like natural bone structure than titanium and is also less prone to corrosion, and implants made from it can be an excellent alternative to titanium devices since they eliminate the risk of allergic reactions caused by metal. While zirconia is quite durable, implants made from this material may not last as long as titanium appliances since they do not bind with the jawbone through osseointegration.
How Can I Make My Dental Implant Last?
In any case, the best way to make sure your dental implant stays in great shape is to take excellent care of it. Your dentist’s maintenance instructions for your implant will probably include:
- Brushing and flossing every day.
- Using antibacterial mouthwash regularly.
- Wearing an appropriate protective device such as a nightguard or an athletic mouthguard when necessary.
- Limiting your intake of sugar and acid.
- Refraining from tobacco and excessive alcohol use.
- Visiting your dentist every six months for checkups and cleanings.
- Abstaining from using your teeth to open bottles or packages or to gnaw on ice or nonfood materials like plastic, glass, wood, and metal.
Excellent hygiene and maintenance habits are the best ways to keep your implants in great condition. Consulting with your dentist can help you understand how to protect your smile from infection and injury.
About the Practice
Tylan Creek Family Dentistry offers the finest oral healthcare to the community of Simpsonville. Led by Drs. Darryl Halbert, Joshua Burns, Billy Forrester, and Lance Halbert, the staff ensures that each patient enjoys courteous service in a clean and welcoming office environment. Areas of expertise include general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry as well as implant services. If you are concerned about the health of your dental implant, contact the practice online or dial (864) 962-6671.