Dental implants are one of the most reliable and long-lasting solutions for replacing missing teeth. They not only restore your smile but also help maintain your jawbone and oral health. While dental implants have a high success rate — often over 95 percent — they can fail in rare cases if not cared for properly. The good news is that many of the risk factors are within your control. Here are 5 effective ways to prevent dental implant failure and keep your smile healthy for years to come.
1. Practice Excellent Oral Hygiene
Just like natural teeth, dental implants require daily care. Poor oral hygiene can lead to peri-implantitis — a gum infection around the implant — which is a major cause of implant failure.
What to do:
- Brush twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush.
- Use low-abrasive toothpaste to protect the implant surface.
- Floss daily using implant-safe floss or an interdental brush to remove plaque between teeth and implants.
- Consider using an antimicrobial mouth rinse for extra protection.
2. Avoid Smoking and Tobacco Use
Smoking is one of the leading risk factors for dental implant failure. It restricts blood flow to the gums, slows healing after implant surgery, and increases the risk of infection.
What to do: If you smoke, try to quit before your implant procedure. Even reducing tobacco use during the healing phase can significantly improve your implant’s chance of success. Your dentist may recommend waiting several weeks after quitting before undergoing implant surgery to ensure optimal healing conditions.
3. Maintain Regular Dental Checkups
Even after your implant has fully healed, routine dental visits are crucial. Your dentist will monitor the implant, surrounding gums, and bone health to catch any early signs of trouble.
What to do: Schedule checkups at least twice a year. During these visits, your dentist will perform professional cleanings and may take X-rays to ensure the implant remains stable and the bone around it is healthy.
4. Protect Your Implant from Excessive Force
Grinding or clenching your teeth (bruxism) can put too much pressure on your implant and lead to loosening or fractures.
What to do: If you suspect you grind your teeth at night, ask your dentist about a custom nightguard. Avoid chewing hard objects like ice, pens, or hard candy, which can damage both implants and natural teeth.
5. Eat a Balanced Diet for Strong Bones and Gums
Your overall health plays a big role in implant success. A diet lacking in key nutrients like calcium, vitamin D, and protein can affect bone strength and gum health.
What to do: Include nutrient-rich foods like leafy greens, dairy products, fish, and lean meats in your diet. Staying hydrated also helps keep your mouth healthy and free of harmful bacteria.
Dental implants are designed to last a lifetime, but their success depends on proper care. By practicing good oral hygiene, quitting smoking, visiting your dentist regularly, protecting your implant from damage, and maintaining a healthy diet, you can ensure your implant stays secure and functional for years to come.
About the Author
Dr. Andrew Barnett earned his dental degree from the University of Pittsburgh. Choosing to specialize in surgery, he returned to the University of Michigan to complete his residency, earning a Master’s of Science and Certificate in Periodontics. Dr. Barnett regularly attends continuing education courses and stays current in his field through memberships in the American Dental Association, the Texas Dental Association, and the American Academy of Periodontology. Need to get your restored smile back on track with implant salvaging? Schedule an appointment with us online or call our Dallas office at (214) 691-2614.