The entire dental implant process, from initial consultation to placement and then healing, can take months to complete. The healing process takes up much of this time. A long healing duration is necessary to ensure the dental implant integrates with the jawbone. Once a dental implant has integrated, it will stay in place for many years provided the patient cares for it in the right way.

But just how does a dental implant stay in the jawbone? This article will answer that question.

Dental Implants Fuse to Bone

Dental implants remain in place because they are able to fuse with your jawbone. During the initial surgery, your prosthodontist will drill into your jawbone to make space for your dental implant. They then insert a titanium post, which is to serve as the root of the dental implant. After several months, the titanium post fuses to the jawbone completely.

Medical practitioners of many fields use titanium because it is biocompatible. This is why doctors use titanium to create various medical objects like artificial hearts, hip joints, knee joints, and screws to repair fractures. Because titanium is corrosion resistant and extremely durable, it is the ideal material for the moist environment of your mouth. And it is able to withstand chewing forces.

Once a titanium implant fuses to the jawbone, the dental implant patient can use that implant for many years, and in some cases, for the rest of their life. The jawbone needs constant stimulation or it eventually begins to resorb. This is why it is so important to replace teeth soon after they are lost. A dental implant provides an opportunity for stimulation, which in turn preserves your jawbone.

Poor Health and Oral Habits Affect Implant Stability

Both natural teeth and dental implants will suffer if you are in poor health. Therefore, staying in good health and refraining from bad habits like smoking and drinking heavily should be your goal. Smoking reduces the blood flow to your gums, and this then reduces your mouth's ability to heal itself. Couple this with a diet lacking in nutrition, and your dental implant could suffer.

Good oral hygiene is important, too, to keep oral bacteria from attacking your teeth and gums.

If you are considering dental implants to replace missing teeth, remember the information in this article. Your dental implants will stay in place, fused to your jawbone, as long as you take excellent care of your oral health and overall health.