The Importance of Good Oral Health for Implant Restoration

Dental implants are a popular and effective solution for replacing missing teeth, offering a natural look and feel that can last a lifetime with proper care. However, the success of dental implants is heavily dependent on the health of the surrounding tissues, teeth, and bone. At Junée F. Gardy DDS, PA in Naples, FL, Dr. Junée F. Gardy emphasizes the importance of maintaining excellent oral health before, during, and after the implant process.

Poor oral hygiene, gum disease, or other dental issues can compromise the stability and longevity of your implants. Understanding the connection between oral health and implant success is essential for anyone considering this restorative and potentially life-changing option to transform your smile.

Does gum disease affect dental implants?

Like general dental and oral health, gum health — or periodontal health — is also a critical factor in the success and longevity of dental implants. Healthy gums provide the necessary support for implants by protecting the underlying bone and preventing infection. If gum disease is present, it can lead to inflammation and bone loss, which can jeopardize the stability of the implant. Prior to implant surgery, Dr. Gardy will thoroughly assess your gum health to ensure that you are a suitable candidate for dental implant restorations.

Based on the findings of your dental examination, Dr. Gardy may recommend first treating any existing gum disease that is found and/or improving your oral hygiene routine to create a healthy environment for the implant. After the placement of dental implants, maintaining good gum health is equally important to prevent unwanted symptoms, delayed healing, and more serious complications, including a condition similar to gum disease that affects implants and can lead to implant failure.

How should I take care of dental implants to make them last longer?

Your dental and oral health routine can have a major impact, either positive or negative, on the long-term success of dental implants. Some of the most important practices to ensure your mouth remains a healthy environment for your implants and to avoid damaging tissues, implants, or implant-supported restorations include:

• Brush and floss twice daily
• Have biannual teeth cleanings and dental exams (or as often as recommended)
• Enjoy a healthy, balanced diet
• Quit smoking if currently a smoker
• Avoid hard, sticky, crunchy, or staining foods and beverages

Let us know if you experience any changes in your implants, restorations, or oral health overall so that they can be addressed as soon as possible to avoid worsening complications and symptoms.

How long do dental implants last?

Dental implants are designed to be a solution for missing teeth, but their longevity depends on several factors, including the quality of the implant, the expertise of the dentist, and the patient's oral hygiene habits. On average, dental implants can last up to 10 – 20 years or longer with proper care. However, issues such as gum disease, bruxism (teeth grinding), or insufficient bone density can affect their lifespan.

Dr. Gardy provides personalized care plans to help patients maintain their implants for as long as possible, including regular monitoring and professional cleanings. With proper at-home and in-office care, you can help set yourself up to enjoy a lifetime of a healthy, strong, and complete smile with dental implants.

Keep your Naples, FL dental implants in tip-top shape with healthy habits at home and regular trips to the dentist

Once you make the investment of time, money, and effort into your smile and overall oral health with dental implants, taking steps to protect your newly restored smile is essential. At Junée F. Gardy DDS, PA, Naples, FL restorative dentist Dr. Junée F. Gardy and our experienced team are committed to helping patients achieve the best possible outcomes with their implants by emphasizing the importance of good oral health. If you're considering dental implants or need support in maintaining your current implants, schedule a consultation with Dr. Gardy today to learn how we can help you safeguard your smile for years to come.