Dental implants are one of the most effective and long-lasting solutions for replacing missing teeth. With proper care and the right conditions, they can last decades—often for life. But the success of your implants depends on a combination of your health, habits, and how well you care for them after placement.
Whether you’re just starting to explore implants or have already had your procedure, here’s what you need to know to make sure your implants have the best chance of long-term success.
Bone Quality & Quantity
Dental implants rely on your jawbone for stability. If there isn’t enough healthy bone to support the implant, it may not fully integrate. Bone loss can be caused by missing teeth, gum disease, or injury. In some cases, bone grafting is needed before implant placement to strengthen the area.
This is why a consultation and 3D scan are so important—we assess your bone structure to make sure you’re a good candidate or to plan for necessary steps before surgery.
Gum Health
Healthy gums are just as important as strong bone. If you have untreated gum disease (periodontitis), it can compromise healing and increase the risk of implant failure. We’ll work with you to treat any active infection before moving forward with your implants.
Smoking & Tobacco Use
Smoking greatly increases the risk of implant failure. It restricts blood flow, which slows healing and can interfere with how well the implant bonds with the bone. If you’re considering implants, quitting smoking—even temporarily—can significantly improve your outcome.
Medical Conditions
Certain health conditions, like uncontrolled diabetes, autoimmune disorders, or medications that affect bone healing (such as bisphosphonates) can impact implant success. During your consultation, we’ll review your full health history to create a plan that’s safe and personalized.
Post-Operative Care
Once your implants are placed, how you care for them matters just as much as how they were placed. Follow all post-op instructions carefully:
- Stick to a soft food diet during early healing
- Use prescribed oral rinses and avoid brushing around the surgical area until cleared to do so
- Avoid using a Waterpik near the site until your doctor says it’s safe
- Keep your follow-up appointments so we can check on your healing progress
If you’ve already had implants placed with us, don’t hesitate to call if you’re unsure about your care routine—we’re here to help make sure your healing stays on track.
Long-Term Maintenance
Just like natural teeth, implants need consistent oral hygiene to stay healthy. That means:
- Brushing and flossing daily (once healing allows)
- Using tools like a floss threader or Waterpik (with care!)
- Scheduling regular cleanings and exams—typically every 6 months
Over time, your implant or prosthesis may need adjustments or repairs. We’ll monitor this at your hygiene visits and keep your smile looking and functioning its best.
Ready to See If You’re a Candidate?
Every smile is different, and the best way to know if implants are right for you is to come in for a complimentary consultation. We’ll evaluate your oral health, review your medical history, and answer all your questions. You deserve a smile that feels strong, secure, and truly yours—and we’re here to help make that happen.
📞 Call us today to schedule your consultation at 801-572-6262. We’d love to be part of your dental implant journey!