It is no secret that dental implants are becoming increasingly popular. Their permanence, however, is often called into question. How long do dental implants last? Patients frequently ask this question to their dentists during the initial consultation.
The answer, unfortunately, is not always straightforward. In this article, we will explore the different factors that affect the longevity of dental implants.
Factors that influence how long your implant will last
By understanding these elements, you can have a better idea of what to expect from your implant in terms of its lifespan.
Dental Implants are a Permanent Solution for Missing Teeth
Dental implant surgery is a revolutionary solution for a missing tooth or multiple teeth since they actually replace your natural teeth, restoring functionality and aesthetic appeal.
During the dental implant procedure, the implant root bonds directly with the jaw bone tissue, providing the stability that traditional replacement options like dentures can’t match.
After the implant placement, biting and chewing are restored to near-normal levels by evenly distributing the mastication load to both sides of the mouth, thus avoiding undue stress on one side or area.
On top of that, tooth implants offer convenience as they do not require extra maintenance that would otherwise involve removal and routine cleaning, unlike dentures. All these features combined make teeth implants an ideal choice when it comes to dealing with missing teeth issues.
The Implant Can Last a Lifetime With Proper Care
Investing in a dental implant is a considerable financial and personal commitment, so it’s important to ensure you get the most out of it.
Fortunately, with proper care, a single tooth implant can last up to 30 years or even longer. This longevity relies on multiple factors, from the patient’s overall health to the quality of the implant itself.
Regular check-ups with your dentist allow you to communicate any concerns you may have about your individual case and will help your implant remain healthy over time.
In turn, this allows you to enjoy the clear speech, an aesthetic smile and improved chewing ability without needing to replace your implants as frequently as other dental replacement treatments require.
How to Increase The Lifespan of Your Implants?
The importance of dental hygiene cannot be understated. Regular brushing and flossing help to remove plaque and harmful bacteria from the teeth, preserving dental health for years to come.
Additionally, it is equally important to keep on top of dental checkups; these visits are essential for the early diagnosis of dental problems such as dental implant failure or gum disease.
The earlier a problem is detected and dealt with, the better the outcomes for dental health. So be sure to brush daily, floss regularly, and make sure that you schedule regular dental appointments – they won’t take too long and will pay off in dividends in terms of dental health!
Factors Cause Implant Failure
Insufficient care and maintenance
As with any part of the body, proper care and maintenance are essential for preserving dental implants. Not brushing/flossing properly or missing routine check-ups can increase the risk of infection and stain accumulation leading to implant failure.
Insufficient bone
If a significant amount of bone loss is present, it could interfere with the ability of the implant to be securely held in place, leading to a higher likelihood of failure.
Poor oral health
Poor oral hygiene is one of the most common reasons for implant failure. Brushing and flossing are essential for preserving dental implants and should not be neglected.
Bruxism (grinding teeth)
Bruxism can cause the implant to become loose or crack the dental crown due to the constant pressure and strain on the dental implant.
Certain medical conditions increase the risk of dental implant failure, so it is important to disclose any health issues before surgery.
An inexperienced surgeon
Choosing a qualified and experienced dental surgeon is crucial for implant success. An inexperienced dentist may not be able to properly install the artificial tooth root and could potentially cause infection or other damage, negatively affecting its longevity.
Implants are a great long-term investment for your oral health. With the proper care, they can last a lifetime. However, any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks, so before proceeding, you should talk to your dentist to understand all the possibilities.
If you have any questions about dental implants or would like to set up a consultation, please contact Available Dental Care on (02) 4062 8763. Dr Shaun Lajevardi, our experienced implant dentist, will be happy to address all of your concerns and help you decide if implants are right for you.
References
Factors Affecting the Survival Rate of Dental Implants: A Retrospective Study https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5774056/
DEALING WITH DENTAL IMPLANT FAILURES https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4327689/
Summary review of the survival of single crowns https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19146146/
Risks and complications associated with dental implant failure: Critical update https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7518499/
