Dental implants are the most advanced tooth replacement treatment modern dentistry offers. An implant consists of a titanium post surgically embedded into and fused with the jawbone that supports a tooth replacement such as a crown, bridge, or denture. Dental implants are the closest you can get to natural teeth because they look, feel, and function just like them.
The question is: do dental implants last forever? With the investment you will make in this treatment, we’ll help you decide if it’s worth it.
What to expect with the dental implant treatment?
Getting dental implants is a long and meticulous process, and it all starts with a thorough dental examination to determine if you are a suitable implant candidate. Several factors determine suitability, such as your oral and general health.
Only when cleared, will your dentist proceed with the treatment. The treatment is also carefully planned for accurate implant placement.
After the dental implant surgery, a few months is needed for the bone and the implant to fuse in a process known as osseointegration. Once this process has occurred successfully, the final restoration can be placed, and you can enjoy your brand new smile. Dental implants can take up to nine months and sometimes longer to complete.
As you can see, dental implant treatment is lengthy and time-consuming for both the patient and the dentist. But every step is vital to the success of your dental implants. When carried out by an experienced dentist, a dental implant is beautiful, functional, and looks exactly like your other teeth.
Do dental implants last forever?
Now for the most pressing question: do dental implants last forever? The titanium implant that fuses with your jaw can last a lifetime. However, the tooth attachment will naturally wear and tear as you use it for everyday functions such as biting and chewing. You can expect it to last between 5 and 15 years before it needs replacing.
Do dental implants last forever? – What impacts its duration?
Several factors affect the lifespan of your dental implants. Some of these may cause treatment failure, so it helps to be aware of them to get the most from your investment.
- Treatment quality – always go to a reputable dentist for your dental implants because an inexperienced dentist will contribute to failure with a poorly designed implant and improper treatment planning that may cause several problems such as tissue trauma
- Oral habits – teeth grinding habits apply excessive pressure, which is especially harmful to a new dental implant. The repeated grinding will also cause trauma and interfere with the bone-jaw fusion
- General health – smoking and other medical conditions such as bone disorders are notorious for implant failures. Smoking impedes wound healing and will significantly affect the lifespan of your implants
- Dental implant maintenance – Lastly, once you have your implant placed, it is vital to know how to take care of it. Excellent oral health goes a long way when it comes to maintaining your implants for your lifetime
How to maintain dental implants?
Good oral hygiene and regular dental visits for check-ups and teeth cleaning are the best ways to maintain your dental implants. Make sure to properly brush your teeth and floss to prevent bacteria that may cause implant infection. Routine dental visits are also important for their upkeep and enable your dentist to inspect your dental implant’s health.
For dental implants that can last a long time
My Local Dentists is home to a caring dental team that is highly experienced in placing dental implants. Aside from that, we are also equipped with sophisticated technology and work closely with patients to help your dental implants last as long as possible.
So if you’re looking to get your missing teeth replaced, call us today to find out how dental implants can make your smile whole again.
References
WebMD – Dental Implants
https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide/dental-implants
Pub Med – Osseointegration and dental implants
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24473360/
Mayo Clinic – Dental implant surgery
https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/dental-implant-surgery/about/pac-20384622#:~:text=Risks%20include%3A,teeth%2C%20gums%2C%20lips%20or%20chin
NCBI – Assessment of Survival Rate of Dental Implants in Patients with Bruxism: A 5-year Retrospective Study
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6169261/
NCBI – Smoking and dental implants
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6169261/
Pub Med – Bone physiology and metabolism in dental implantology: risk factors for osteoporosis and other metabolic bone diseases
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1288794/#:~:text=Common%20metabolic%20bone%20disorders%20affecting,a%20compromise%20in%20bone%20strength