How Long Do Dental Implants Last?
If you’re considering dental implant surgery, you may be concerned about their longevity. Dental implants can be a significant financial investment. So, it’s important to be confident in the investment that you’re making. Are they worth it? How long do dental implants last?
What are Dental Implants?
An implant is a prosthetic tooth root made of durable metal and is the primary reason implants can last almost a lifetime. The implant takes the place of your natural tooth root and forms a base for a replacement crown. An endodontist performs the endosteal or subperiosteal surgical procedure to affix one or more implants depending on how many teeth are being replaced. Modern technology allows you to receive single-tooth or full arch on four implants, implant-supported bridges, or implant-retained dentures (overdentures).
What is the Process Like for Getting Implants?
Surgery entails embedding a titanium screw, or implant post, into your jawbone (endosteal technique) or your gum (subperiosteal technique). The screw functions as a tooth root. It takes several months for the metal post to attach to the bone and the gum to heal. After the fusion and healing process, an abutment is fastened to keep the crown in place. The final stage of the implant process is getting a customized ceramic crown mounted onto the substituted tooth root. Even though the process takes several months, it's worth the wait for a complete and natural smile.
What are the Benefits of Dental Implants?
Implants are an excellent option for long-term teeth replacement and are currently the preferred way to permanently replace one or more missing or damaged teeth. Before now, patients had a choice between removable dentures and fixed bridges. There's no doubt the benefits of implants far outweigh those provided by bridges and dentures. You'll be satisfied you chose dental implants because of these and other benefits:
- Provide the most natural-looking results
- Feel and function like your original teeth
- Won't put pressure on adjacent teeth
- Promote jawbone growth
- Won't shift or fall out
- Help you bite, chew, and speak better
- Have a success rate of up to 98%
How Can I Make My Dental Implants Last?
As with your natural teeth, there's no guarantee your implant will last forever. While they are durable and intended to be permanent, there's a 50-80 percent chance you'll need a new crown in 15 to 20 years. Here are things you can do and avoid to extend the lifespan of your teeth:
- Choose an endodontist who has the credentials and expertise in implant surgery.
- Brush and floss your replacement teeth daily as your natural teeth.
- Avoid biting down on hard objects to prevent implant fracture.
- See your dentist regularly for routine exams, cleanings, and other dental treatments.
- Wear a nightguard to protect against damage caused by teeth-grinding.
- Quit smoking to avoid harming the gum and bone surrounding the implant.
Good oral hygiene reduces wear and tear on your new crowns. It also prevents peri-implantitis, an infection that causes loosening of the artificial tooth root and implant failure.
A Naturally Confident Smile
Our endodontist has specialized training and expertise in implant surgery. We'll do a detailed oral exam and jawbone assessment to determine if dental implants are right for you, what type, and the best surgical technique. We'll ensure the procedure is done right, so your new teeth can last for decades. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.