A dental implant is the optimal choice when it comes to replacing a missing tooth. But how long do such teeth replacements last? Implants are physically anchored in the jaw bone and outfitted with a sturdy porcelain prosthetic that is personally designed to mimic your natural teeth. This sturdy structure helps the implant function as a natural tooth would, giving them a much longer lifespan than other tooth replacement options. In fact, implants can last well over 25 years, as long as you practice excellent oral hygiene. By contrast, other tooth replacement options typically have to be re-done every 7-15 years. We provide the best dental implants Los Angeles has around.

Ensuring You Get the Most Bang for Your Buck

Dental implants are by far the most practical tooth replacement option currently available. Still, they can take months to properly place as your surgeon at L.A. Wilshire Periodontics waits for the jawbone to completely integrate the post. We provide the best periodontist Los Angeles has. 

 No one wants to go through the whole process again, so it is imperative that you take proper care of the implant as though it were a natural tooth. Proper care includes:

1. Brushing twice a day
2. Flossing once a day
3. Using mouth wash once a day
4. Visiting your dentist every six months, at least, for a thorough examination
5. Avoiding chewing on inappropriate objects, including trying to open things with your mouth
6. Avoiding corrosive foods that are high in sugar or acids. Brushing immediately after sugary foods or rinsing your mouth out with alkaline water after acidic foods can limit the damage. 

Despite your best efforts, you may need to have the crown of the implant replaced at some point along the line, but solid practices and regular trips to your dentist’s office should keep the post and abutment of your implant going strong for decades. 

Finding the Best Ways to Ensure Proper Care

Life is hectic, and we all mess up our dental routine sometimes. Luckily, there are a few things we can do to elevate our dental care to ensure that little mistakes are rectified without harming the implant. As tough as your dental implant is, it requires all of the same care as a natural tooth. It can even be slightly more sensitive to abrasion and chipping, depending on its placement. These are a few alterations you might need to make in your dental hygiene routine to ensure your implant lasts as long as possible. 

1. Opt for a soft, nylon brush
2. Keep an inter-dental brusher on hand for more precise cleaning around the implant
3. Keep floss on you at all times
4. Choose toothpaste and mouthwashes that are designed for sensitive teeth
5. Set alarms for daily dental care
6. Schedule your next dental appointment before leaving your dentist’s office

How Long Do Teeth Replacements Last? Finding What Works for You

Although a dental implant is often the best choice for patients concerned about bone health and overall longevity, they aren’t always right for everyone. If you’re concerned about the cost or surgical involvement of a dental implant, there is no reason to avoid tooth replacement altogether. Failing to replace a missing tooth can actually weaken the surrounding teeth and make you more likely to lose additional teeth in the future. 

Rather than writing tooth replacement off, you should consider making an appointment with your local periodontist. They will be able to evaluate the current state of your teeth and provide a range of possible treatments that can greatly improve your quality of life. Partial dentures and dental bridges are just two options that can be used to give you the confidence to smile, speak, and eat normally.