5 Tips for Dental Implant Success

Dental implants are one of the most reliable and long-lasting solutions for missing teeth. With success rates of over 95 percent, they’ve helped millions of people regain confidence in their smiles and enjoy better oral health. However, like any medical or dental procedure, implants can fail if they’re not properly cared for. Fortunately, most causes of dental implant failure are preventable. By following a few smart habits, you can help ensure your implants last a lifetime. Here are 5 essential tips for avoiding dental implant failure.

1. Practice Excellent Oral Hygiene

Even though dental implants aren’t natural teeth, they still need daily cleaning and maintenance. Bacteria can build up around the implant and cause inflammation of the surrounding gums and bone—a condition known as peri-implantitis. This infection can loosen the implant and lead to failure if left untreated.

To prevent problems, brush at least twice a day and floss once daily, paying special attention to the gumline and around the implant crown. Consider using an interdental brush or a water flosser, which can clean hard-to-reach spaces more effectively. Regular oral hygiene keeps both your implants and your natural teeth healthy.

2. Quit Smoking or Using Tobacco

Smoking is one of the leading risk factors for dental implant failure. Nicotine restricts blood flow to the gums and bone, which can slow healing after surgery and weaken the bone’s ability to fuse with the implant—a process known as osseointegration.

If you smoke, quitting before and after your implant surgery greatly increases your chances of success. Many dental professionals recommend avoiding tobacco use for at least several months before and after the procedure, though stopping altogether offers the best long-term results for both your oral and overall health.

3. Follow All Post-Surgery Instructions

After implant placement, your dentist will provide specific instructions to support proper healing. These guidelines may include dietary restrictions, activity limitations, and cleaning recommendations. Following these directions is crucial for avoiding complications such as infection, excessive bleeding, or implant movement.

For instance, you may need to eat soft foods for the first few days and avoid chewing directly on the implant site. You’ll also want to maintain good oral hygiene while being gentle around the healing area. Ignoring your dentist’s advice can delay healing or even compromise the stability of the implant.

4. Schedule Regular Dental Checkups

Routine dental visits are key to maintaining healthy implants. During these appointments, your dentist will monitor the health of your gums, check for signs of bone loss, and make sure the implant and crown are secure.

Even if your implants feel fine, small issues—like minor gum inflammation or bite misalignment—can worsen over time if not addressed early. Professional cleanings also help remove plaque and tartar buildup that daily brushing might miss, keeping your implants in top condition.

5. Protect Your Implants from Excessive Force

Just like natural teeth, implants can be damaged by too much pressure. Grinding or clenching your teeth (a condition called bruxism) can place strain on the implant and surrounding bone, leading to cracks, loosening, or failure.

If you tend to grind your teeth—especially at night—ask your dentist about a custom mouthguard. You should also avoid using your teeth (or implants) to open bottles, tear packages, or bite on hard objects like ice or pens.

Dental implants are a lasting investment in your smile, but their success depends on how well you care for them. With proper hygiene, healthy lifestyle choices, and regular dental care, your implants can look, feel, and function like natural teeth for decades or even a lifetime.

About the Author

Dr. Ryan Eskridge has been practicing dentistry for nearly 20 years! He graduated from The Ohio State University College of Dentistry in 2002 before immediately joining a family dental office in Circleville, where he became partner in record time. He has kept up his education, attending state-of-the-art trainings at prestigious institutions like The Dawson Academy. Dr. Eskridge also keeps up to date through memberships with the American Dental Association, the Ohio Dental Association, and the Spectrum Study Club. If you’re interested in dental implants, schedule an appointment through our website or call (614) 792-0063.