Dental Implants are an excellent choice to replace your missing teeth, but how long do dental Implants last? There are certain factors that affect how long dental Implants last, and they depend mainly on the patient’s lifestyle and overall dental hygiene. Regardless of the success rate of teeth implants, they tend to fail sometimes. It is not due to rejection or functionality issues but medical conditions, diseases, and implant misuse.
So, How long do dental Implants last? Keep on reading to explore the factors that affect the lifespan of dental Implants and some tips to keep them looking good for a longer period of time.
What are Dental Implants?
Dental Implants or “Tooth Implants” are one of the best available options to replace a single missing tooth or to act as an anchor for a bridge or dentures. These are surgically placed into the jawbone to replace your missing teeth. It provides a strong foundation for artificial teeth and functions just like your natural teeth.
There are many benefits of Dental Implants, and one of them is “longevity.” It is not incorrect to say that dental implants are the longest-lasting tooth replacement option.
According to The American College of Prosthodontists, around 36 million Americans lack teeth, and 120 million people are missing at least one tooth. In the coming years, there will be more people seeking solutions for their missing teeth. Therefore, dental implants play a bigger role as a tooth replacement solution for missing teeth.
Why do you need Dental Implants?
Some common reasons you might need Dental Implants are:
- To replace one or more missing teeth
- To support dentures
- To support a dental bridge
- To improve your dental health
- To improve your speaking ability
- To enhance your smile
Can Dental Implants Last a Lifetime?
The average longevity of a dental implant is 10-30 years. So, depending on when you get them, they can last you a lifetime. There is no tooth-replacement option other than implants that can last you that long. Therefore, we can say that when you get dental implants, you are actually making an investment in your dental health that will last you a lifetime.
Although dental Implants can last a lifetime, crowns last you for about 10 to 15 years only before they need to be replaced due to normal wear and tear. If proper care is taken, the dental crown can last for more than 15 years.
The location of the crown also affects how long dental Implants Last. Implants at the back of the mouth experience more strain from chewing than those present in the front.
Why Do Dental Implants Last So Long?
Now, you must be wondering what it is that makes the teeth implants last so long. Well, it is the “design”. We already know that a dental implant is an artificial tooth and root system that consists of an implant root, an abutment, and a crown. The dental implant root is made up of titanium posts with threads (ridges) like a screw that is surgically implanted into the jawbone. Titanium is a biocompatible material that can easily fuse with the bone through a process called osseointegration. The process takes several months, but once a strong bond is formed, it can last for several years.
Why does a crown not last as long as a dental implant?
After your implant root has been in place for a few months and has properly fused with the bone, it’s time to add an abutment and crown. The abutment acts like a post that goes from the root through the gums and allows the crown to be attached securely. Typically, crowns are made from strong porcelain material that looks and works like natural tooth enamel.
The implant may last for about 10-30 years on average; the crown lasts only 10-15 years before you have to replace it due to normal wear and tear. Since the cost of the crown is much less than the cost of the dental implant, the crown can be replaced once or twice.
What Can I Do to Make My Dental Implant Last Longer?
To make your teeth Implants last longer, you need to follow some basic yet essential steps:
Practice Good Oral Hygiene: Make it a habit to brush your teeth twice and floss daily. It not only keeps your natural teeth healthy but also protects the gum health essential for supporting the implant.
Schedule Regular Dental Check-ups: Schedule an appointment with your dentist every six months for check-ups and cleanings. When your teeth are clean and your gums are healthy, it ensures the stability and longevity of your implant.
Quit Smoking: Smoking negatively impacts the health of your dental implants by disrupting the natural blood flow to the gums. However, if you quit smoking, it will cause better healing and improve the chances of successful osseointegration, which is necessary to stabilize the implant.
Adopt a Healthy Lifestyle: You must pay utmost attention to improve your bone health. Include food rich in calcium and potassium in your diet for strong bones to support the implant and overall oral health.
Conclusion
So, How long do Dental Implants Last? Several factors affect the longevity of dental implants, but with proper care, they can last you a lifetime. Additionally, regular dental check-ups, good oral hygiene practices, and a healthy lifestyle contribute to how long dental implants last.
Are you curious about how long dental implants last and how they can benefit you?
Schedule a personalized consultation with Rainier Ave Dental in South Seattle, WA, today. Whether online booking or a phone call works best for you, reach out to us at (206) 725-3667 and take the first step towards a confident and enduring smile.
FAQ
How long do dental implants last?
Dental Implants can last for 10-30 years if proper care and maintenance are done.
What factors affect the lifespan of dental implants?
Factors such as oral hygiene, overall health, smoking habits, and regular dental check-ups can influence how long dental implants last.
Do dental implants require special care to last longer?
Although dental implants don’t decay like natural teeth, they still require good oral hygiene practices, regular dental visits, and avoiding harmful habits like smoking to ensure they last long.
