Dental implants have revolutionized dentistry by providing a permanent and long-term solution to missing teeth. Whether you are missing a single tooth or have a full set of missing teeth, dental implants are a great choice. They are naturally aesthetic while being stable and durable. This effectively restores both your confidence in your smile and the normal functions of your teeth.
But how long do these benefits last and how long do dental implants last? While they are designed for longevity, several factors can influence their lifespan. This article will shed some light on the longevity of dental implants, how to ensure their long-term success, and how to know if a replacement is needed.
Overview of Dental Implants
To give you a better understanding of dental implants, let us first learn about the basics. A dental implant consists of three primary components:
- Implant post – this is commonly a titanium screw and is surgically placed in the jawbone to serve as the foundation for the replacement tooth.
- Abutment – this is a connector piece that attaches the implant post to the artificial crown
- Artificial tooth – a single unit of implant will have an artificial crown. This is custom-designed to look like the neighbouring teeth for a natural smile.
The dental implant process involves multiple stepsー from the initial consultation, treatment planning, surgical placement of the implant, healing and osseointegration (where the implant will fuse with the bone), and finally, attaching the crown restoration. With modern advancements in dental technology, implant treatments are now done with the most accuracy in planning and surgery. This has boosted the success rate for dental implants to up to 95%.
Factors Influencing the Lifespan of Dental Implants
While dental implants are known for their durability and long-term reliability, various factors can influence their lifespan. Below are some key elements that affect the longevity of implants:
Quality of Implant Materials
High-quality materials can withstand the test of time better. Titanium is the most commonly used material for implant posts because of its true-tested biocompatibility and ability to fuse with the bone for a long-lasting implant.
Location of the Implant in the Mouth
Implants in the back of the mouth are subjected to more pressure from chewing and grinding than those in the front. This makes them more prone to normal wear and tear overtime.
Patient’s Oral Hygiene and Lifestyle Habits
Getting dental implants is a lifetime commitment. Proper care includes good oral hygiene, frequent dental visits, and management of habits such as smoking and teeth grinding. If these are not taken into consideration, the implants may fail early.
Bone Density and Jaw Health
Bone support is crucial to implant success. If the jawbone is weak or has deteriorated due to bone loss, the implant may not integrate properly. Proper treatment planning can prevent this problem by doing a bone graft prior to implant surgery.
Overall Health Condition
Being in good health can help enhance conditions as you recover from implant treatment. You may need to explore other alternatives if you have medical conditions such as diabetes or clotting diseases as this can affect the implant as it heals.
Skill, Experience, and Equipment
The expertise of the dental professional and the technology available in the dental office are also critical factors. These play a significant role in reducing treatment complications.
Expected Lifespan of Dental Implants
If well-maintained and with proper treatment planning and surgery, dental implants are made to last a lifetime. Studies show that the implant post can last well over 20 years. In many cases, it may never need a replacement.
However, the artificial tooth or crown may naturally wear down or crack with time, especially as it is exposed to constant pressure from grinding or chewing food. Typically, a dental crown made from ceramic or porcelain can last around 10 – 15 years.
How to Extend the Life of Your Dental Implants
Here are some tips to ensure a long lifespan for your implants:
- Maintain excellent oral hygiene. Brush twice daily using a soft-bristled toothbrush, floss regularly, and use an antibacterial mouthwash.
- Visit your dentist twice a year for routine examination and teeth cleaning so they can catch potential issues early.
- Avoid smoking as this can hinder the healing process and risk implant failure.
- Use a mouthguard if you grind your teeth to protect the implants from damage.
- Watch your diet. Avoid consuming too much hard or sticky foods to avoid crown damage.
Signs of Potential Issues with Dental Implants
Early intervention is key to preventing serious dental complications and extensive damage to your dental implant. If you experience any of these issues, consult with your dentist immediately so they can take a closer look and determine a suitable treatment:
- Persistent pain or discomfort
- Gum inflammation or receding gums
- Loose implant or crown
- Difficulty in chewing
- Sudden change in the bite
When Do Dental Implants Need to be Replaced?
In many cases, the titanium post of the implant will never need a replacement. However, there are situations where the crown, abutment, or the entire implant may require replacement.
- Crown damage due to wear and tear may require the replacement of the crown itself.
- Infection or implant failure will need the full removal and replacement of the infected implant post.
- Bone loss around the implant can compromise stability, so the implant must be removed and bone grafts should be considered to restore bone health.
Based on your individual circumstances, your dentist will properly assess the conditions and determine whether a partial or full replacement is necessary.
Conclusion
With proper care and maintenance, dental implants offer a lifetime of service to replace the appearance and functions of missing teeth. However, factors like quality of materials, oral hygiene, and implant care contribute to their longevity. These should be considered to ensure that you are getting a worthwhile investment with dental implants.
At Chinook Dental Group, we specialize in oral surgery and dental implant procedures. Our state-of-the-art facilities and expert dental team are committed to providing expert care so that you can enjoy the full benefits of this advanced treatment. Contact us today to schedule your consultation!
