Natural-Looking
Dental Implants in Mauldin, SC

Once your treatment is finished, the success of your dental implants is in your hands. For most patients, implants last at least 25 years before they need to be replaced. If you maintain excellent oral hygiene, including regular brushing and flossing, they can last for the rest of your life.

The first week or two after surgery is crucial to the success of your implants. Make sure to follow Dr. McCraw’s post-op instructions carefully during this period. These instructions will include limiting your diet to soft foods, avoiding alcohol or smoking, and rinsing your mouth with warm salt water after meals.

Once they’ve healed, dental implants can be cared for just like natural teeth. No special tools or products are necessary to keep them clean. Just make sure to brush and floss every day, in addition to visiting our practice for checkups at least twice a year. Dr. McCraw recommends using a soft-bristled toothbrush and avoiding any brands of toothpaste that contain abrasive ingredients.

Dental implants have a success rate of 98% — as long as your surgery is performed by an experienced and qualified dentist, there’s no reason to worry. In fact, dental implants are the only restoration that stimulates your jawbone and prevents your teeth from shifting, making them the safest option in the long run.

Unfortunately, dental implants are rarely covered by insurance, though your plan may pay for a portion of your total treatment cost. The amount of coverage can vary significantly depending on the terms set by your provider. If you have any questions about your insurance, our team will be happy to help you maximize your benefits.

Complications with dental implants are rare. In the unlikely event that you experience one, don’t attempt to fix the issue yourself, as this can result in permanent damage and set your treatment back further. Instead, call our practice right away and Dr. McCraw will ensure you get the care you need as soon as possible.