Dental implants are one of the most reliable and long-lasting tooth replacement options available today. With a success rate of over 95 percent, they offer the strength, stability, and function of natural teeth. However, like any dental procedure, implants can fail if the surrounding tissues or the implant itself becomes compromised. The good news is that most causes of implant failure are preventable. By taking the right steps before and after treatment, you can protect your investment and enjoy decades of confident smiles.
Here are 5 effective ways to avoid dental implant failure.
1. Maintain Excellent Oral Hygiene
Even though an implant can’t decay like a natural tooth, the tissues around it can become infected. Peri-implantitis—a serious infection affecting the gums and bone around the implant—is one of the leading causes of implant failure. Daily brushing and flossing, along with cleaning around the implant crown, help remove plaque that can irritate the surrounding gum tissue. Your dentist may also recommend special brushes, floss threaders, or water flossers to keep the area clean. Consistent hygiene lowers your risk of inflammation and helps your implant fuse properly with the bone.
2. Keep Up with Regular Dental Visits
Routine dental checkups are crucial for catching small problems before they affect your implant. During your appointments, your dentist will examine the implant site, take X-rays when needed, and assess your gum health. These visits allow early detection of issues like gum disease, bone loss, or loose components. Professional cleanings also help remove plaque and tartar that home care tools can’t reach. Skipping these visits increases the chances of complications going unnoticed until they become serious.
3. Avoid Smoking and Tobacco Use
Smoking is one of the strongest risk factors for dental implant failure. Nicotine reduces blood flow to the gums, delays healing, and interferes with osseointegration—the process where the implant fuses with the jawbone. Smokers have significantly higher implant failure rates compared to non-smokers. If you use tobacco, quitting before your procedure and avoiding it during your healing period (and beyond) dramatically improves your chances of long-term implant success.
4. Protect Your Implant from Excessive Force
Habitual grinding or clenching places intense pressure on teeth, including implants. Too much force can damage the implant crown, loosen the implant, or cause bone loss around the site. If you grind your teeth at night, your dentist may recommend a custom nightguard to protect your implant and natural teeth. Likewise, avoiding habits like chewing ice, biting pens, or using your teeth as tools helps preserve your restoration.
5. Follow All Post-Surgery Instructions Carefully
Your dentist will provide specific aftercare guidelines—such as eating soft foods, avoiding strenuous activity, and keeping the implant site clean—during the healing period. Following these instructions is essential for proper recovery. Ignoring them can disrupt the healing process, cause infection, or interfere with osseointegration. When in doubt, ask your dentist for clarification.
Dental implants are a strong, dependable solution when properly cared for. By maintaining good oral hygiene, protecting your implant, and partnering closely with your dentist, you can ensure your new tooth stays healthy and strong for years to come.
About the Practice
Are you interested in the most modern solution to tooth loss? Here at Berquist Family Dentistry, we can restore your smile with dental implants! Our dental treatments are catered to your unique needs, and we partner with local dental implant experts to ensure you get the very best care available. We have a wide range of dental payment options available for your convenience as well. Let us help you get started on your journey to a restored smile. Schedule an appointment online or call one of our conveniently located offices in your area.
