If you have missing teeth, you’re certainly not alone. About 120 million people in the U.S. are missing at least one tooth, and about 36 million have lost all of their natural teeth on both jaws. Although this is common, there is a significant social stigma attached to it. People without any natural teeth feel self-conscious and embarrassed. Furthermore, missing teeth can lead to issues with your health.
There is a revolutionary solution for people with complete tooth loss: All-on-4® Dental Implants, also known as full mouth dental implants. It’s often thought that patients with missing teeth will need a single implant for each missing tooth. This isn’t necessarily the case. The full mouth technique allows patients to enjoy a complete smile with just four implant posts per arch (eight in total). A denture is securely affixed to the four posts on each arch.
The typical lifespan of full mouth dental implants
Full mouth dental implants are exceptionally durable. In fact, the implant posts themselves should never require replacement, although there are issues that may cause them to fail. In most cases, patients can reasonably expect the implant post to last for the rest of their lives.
The dentures placed on top of the implant posts will sustain minimal damage from daily wear and tear. On average, they last 20 years or longer but might require some adjustments from time to time.
How to help your dental implants last longer
Dental implant failure is rare, but it does happen. It usually means that the jawbone has failed to adhere to the implant post properly. This process is known as osseointegration. It can be negatively affected by many factors, including active gum disease, bruxism (teeth grinding), osteoporosis, cancer treatment, and smoking.
Therefore, it’s essential to follow your dentist’s instructions. If you smoke, it’s time to quit. Remember to brush your dentures every day. Even though your dentures cannot develop cavities, food particles can still get trapped, attract bacteria, and cause gum irritation and disease. In addition, you should visit your dentist as often as recommended for professional cleanings and exams.
Ultimately, one of the most important steps for ensuring your dental implants’ long-term success is the team of professionals you choose. Proper treatment planning is essential, as is careful patient screening. It’s always best to choose an experienced implant dentist who specializes in the All-on-4® method. Then, you can rest assured that they will successfully identify and apply the most effective techniques.
Consult the dental implant specialists on Long Island
Our team has specialized knowledge in placing All-on-4® Dental Implants for full mouth restoration at Long Island Implant and Cosmetic Dentistry. We also prioritize patient education, believing that every patient should be empowered to make informed wellness decisions. Contact us today to schedule a consult for dental implants in Huntington, Long Island.
Please note our dental practice is currently open for all appointments, including cosmetic and restorative dentistry. Our entire team is following strict COVID-19 protocols to protect public health and safety. Thank you for your cooperation.
Additional resources on dental implants
- American College of Prosthodontists, Facts & Figures, https://www.gotoapro.org/facts-figures/
- Mayo Clinic, Dental Implant Surgery, https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/dental-implant-surgery/about/pac-20384622
