3D graphic of dental implant

How Long Do Dental Implants Last

How Long Do Dental Implants Last?

Dental implants are a long-term option for tooth replacement. Some implants replace a single tooth, and others help to anchor dentures for added stability. These state-of-the-art treatments offer many benefits, allowing patients to chew, talk and smile comfortably. How long do dental implants last?

 

How Long Do Dental Implants Last?

Every patient is different, but in general dental implants are permanent. They can last a lifetime with professional care and good oral hygiene. Many patients can expect implants to last 20-30 years or more.

How Do Dental Implants Work?

Each dental implant has several parts that help the new tooth last a long time:

  • Titanium insert: This strong metal insert acts as a new “root” that replacement teeth can attach to. The titanium post is inserted into the jawbone where the missing tooth was located. Gradually, new bone grows around it, effectively making it part of the jaw.
  • Abutment: This is a small connector that helps the new tooth attach securely to the titanium insert. The abutment is essential for having firm teeth that stay fixed in place.
  • Crown: The crown is the replacement tooth. Crowns are made of ceramic, which is a stain-resistant, hard and durable material. They look practically identical to natural teeth.

Sometimes, when patients ask the question “How long do dental implants last?” they want to know about the crown as well as the insert. This is an important difference. Inserts are designed to last a very long time, but some crowns may require replacement after 15-20 years.

How Long Do Dental Implants Last When They’re Mini Dental Implants?

Some patients can use mini dental implants. These narrower implants allow for a simpler, less invasive procedure. It’s often possible to finish the procedure in a single visit, with no sutures and only localized anesthesia needed.

Do these toothpick-sized posts last a shorter time than traditional implants? According to available studies, mini dental implants should be just as durable as conventional ones as long as patients take good care of them.

What Factors Affect the Durability of Dental Implants?

It’s important to follow a good routine to care for dental implants. Fortunately, the steps are identical to what patients should do for other teeth:

  • Brush after meals and before bed
  • Floss regularly
  • Use an antibacterial mouthwash to kill germs
  • Avoid chewing on hard foods, such as candy or ice
  • Schedule dental checkups every six months

Taking good care of crowns helps them last longer and prevents damage. Protecting bones and avoiding bone loss matters for tooth stability, too.

Who Can Get Dental Implants?

Our dental team evaluates patients on a personal basis. The requirements for implants are similar to other types of dental surgery or tooth extractions. Some people with heart problems or diabetes may need other options.

That said, dental implants have an excellent success rate, up to 98%. The majority of patients are a good fit, though some people may need additional work, such as bone grafting, to ensure the implant has a firm foundation.

Contact us for more information about dental implants. The best answer to the question “how long do dental implants last?” should be personalized.

 


 

Sources:

Healthline
WebMD
Hiossen