Dental implant surgery boasts a success rate of about 95 percent with its patients. It’s just one of several reasons it has become the gold standard for tooth replacement; not only because of its sustained success, but because it’s a root-to-crown solution that gives you artificial teeth that look, feel, and function just like natural ones. To keep that success rate intact, let’s look at how you can avoid becoming part of the minority whose implants fail.
Tip #1: Choose an Experienced Dental Implant Team
Success starts with your dentist. Working with a skilled, experienced implant provider significantly reduces the risk of complications. Precise planning, advanced imaging, and expert placement techniques all play a critical role in your implant’s stability and long-term health. Be sure to ask about your dentist’s training, experience, and success rate with implants during your initial consultation. Some practices place the implant and restore it all in one office, while others will perform implant placement and refer the patient to another dentist for work with the restoration.
Tip # 2: Follow Post-Op Instructions Carefully
After implant surgery, your mouth needs time to heal. Your dentist will provide detailed instructions to support recovery, including:
- Avoiding certain foods (especially hard, crunchy, or sticky items).
- Taking prescribed medications or antibiotics.
- Managing swelling with ice and rest.
- Maintaining good oral hygiene around the implant site.
- Avoiding exerting yourself physically for several days.
Following these guidelines closely can prevent infection and promote proper healing.
Tip #3: Maintain Excellent Oral Hygiene
Just like natural teeth, dental implants require regular brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings. Poor oral hygiene can lead to peri-implantitis, a condition similar to gum disease that affects the tissues surrounding the implant. If left untreated, it can cause bone loss and implant failure.
To keep your implants healthy:
- Brush for two minutes twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush.
- Floss daily, especially around the implant.
- Gargle with an antibacterial mouthwash.
- Visit your dentist every 6 months for regular checkups and cleanings.
Tip #4: Avoid Smoking or Using Tobacco
Smoking is one of the leading causes of implant failure. Nicotine restricts blood flow, which slows healing and reduces your body’s ability to fight infection. Smokers are significantly more likely to experience implant complications than non-smokers. If you smoke and are considering dental implants, talk to your dentist about quitting before and after treatment to improve your chances of success.
Tip #5: Address Teeth Grinding
Bruxism (teeth grinding or clenching) puts excessive force on dental implants and can interfere with how they fuse to the jawbone. If you have this habit, especially at night, your dentist may recommend a custom nightguard to protect your implants and surrounding teeth.
Tip #6: Watch for Warning Signs
Even after healing, it’s important to stay alert for potential signs of implant trouble, including:
- Persistent oral pain or swelling.
- Loosening of the implant.
- Bleeding or pus around the implant site.
- Difficulty chewing.
If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your dentist right away. Early intervention can prevent further damage.
Dental implants are a strong, natural-looking, and long-lasting solution, but their success depends on your care and commitment. By choosing an experienced provider and following a solid oral hygiene routine, you can enjoy your new smile with confidence for years to come!
About the Author
Dr. Bradley Mitchell is a 2014 graduate of the University of Oklahoma College of Dentistry. He is a member of the American Dental Association, Oklahoma Dental Association, American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, and the Academy of General Dentistry. If you’re considering dental implants, you can rest assured knowing that Dr. Mitchell partners with the best local dental implant experts. We practice with the latest technology, treating you with a comfortable, mess-free digital impression system! To schedule your appointment, visit our website or give our Oklahoma City office a call at (405) 755-2670.
