More and more people opt for dental implants over traditional tooth replacement methods like bridges or dentures. A key consideration for many of them is, “Do dental implants last forever?”
Since getting dental implants involves a more complex procedure than placing a bridge or denture, it is natural to ensure you make a worthwhile investment.
To answer the question, “Do dental implants last forever?” it’s important to understand their structure and the factors that affect their lifespan.
A dental implant is a durable and permanent tooth replacement that bonds with the jawbone. Although they aren’t eternal, they offer a long-lasting solution for replacing missing teeth.
Dental implants generally last between 10 to 15 years or even longer. Although the implant integrates permanently with the jawbone, the replacement tooth (or crown) sits above the jawline and undergoes daily wear and tear.
The implant post tends to last the longest since it is integrated with the surrounding bone and is not directly exposed to damage-causing factors. Most estimates suggest that a dental implant post can last around 25 years or more, with some sources indicating that it could last forever.
All in all, based on the age you decide to get your implants, it is highly likely that you will be able to enjoy their benefits for the rest of your life as long you care for them.
Just like natural teeth, artificial teeth require meticulous oral hygiene. Regular brushing and flossing are essential to prevent issues that could shorten the lifespan of your implants.
For optimal results, visit your dentist every four to six months. Regular check-ups allow your dentist to detect any potential problems early before they become more serious.
Foods high in sugar can damage natural teeth and affect implant ceramic materials. Eating sticky or hard foods can also shorten the lifespan of dental implants.
Jaw clenching and teeth grinding can be significant factors in implant failure due to excessive force. Consult your dentist about strategies to avoid these habits, or consider using a custom night guard to protect your teeth.
Dental implants placed at the front of your mouth generally have a longer lifespan than those positioned towards the back. This is because front teeth endure less pressure from chewing than molars do.
With the appropriate hygiene practices mentioned earlier, both front and back dental implants can last 25 years or more.
Due to its excellent biocompatibility, titanium is the most widely used material for dental implants. However, since titanium implants contain trace amounts of other metals, some patients might experience allergic reactions. If you are sensitive to any metals found in titanium, zirconia dental implants could be a suitable alternative.
Collaborating with a skilled team of dentists and oral surgeons is the most effective way to ensure dental implants' extended lifespan. A trusted dentist will provide preventive care tips to help you monitor and maintain your implants at home.
Selecting a dentist experienced in dental implants is essential for extending their durability, especially for patients with pre-existing conditions.
Dental implants boast an overall success rate of about 95%, though failures can still occur. An implant is considered to have failed if it becomes loose or shifts from its position, necessitating its removal and replacement.
Situations that may lead to implant failure and require a replacement include:
Overall, in answer to the question, “Do dental implants last forever?” dental implants are highly durable compared to other tooth replacement methods.
With proper care, they can last approximately 25 years or more. However, implant-supported prostheses typically last around 10 to 15 years and may need replacement when worn out or damaged.
Schedule an appointment with Dental Arts of Florida and find out if your implants can last forever.
Yes, dental implants are completely safe for individuals in good health. However, if you have underlying health conditions, they affect the safety and longevity of the implants. Consult your dentist to find out if you are an eligible candidate for dental implants
The failure rate of dental implants is approximately 5% to 10%. But as long as you are working with an experienced surgeon and maintaining good oral hygiene combined with regular dental checkups, you can be assured that there is a 95%-98% chance that your implant procedure will be successful.
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