How long does a dental implant last for?

Dental implant is a permanent replacement tooth made of titanium, biocompatible material consisting of an artificial tooth root with a porcelain crown on top. Implants aid as a replacement tooth root which is accepted by the body and serves as a strong and sturdy foundation for replacement teeth. Implants interface directly with the jawbone, bonding or attaching itself with surrounding bone tissue through a process called osseointegration.

Once the osseointegration procedure is complete, and the material of the implant and the surrounding bone have been fused, the implant will serve as an artificial tooth root, forming a solid foundation for a prosthetic tooth. This procedure provides replaced teeth the stability and strength to support replacement teeth, functioning like regular teeth and holding out against daily use. While the tooth implant itself is designed to be permanent and even if you get the best dental implants, it can be possible that the crown attached to it might need to be replaced because of normal wear and tear. Tooth replacement such as crowns or implant-supported dentures may need to be replaced in 10 to 15 years. Tooth implants can last for the rest of your lifetime when cared for properly along with good oral hygiene.

How can you assure longevity of these implants?

Even though implants last for a lifetime more than most alternatives, the actual lifespan of your implant, however, can be influenced by several factors including types of dental implants, oral hygiene practices, diet and lifestyle, dentist and implant’s location in your mouth. Here’s how to ensure a long life of dental implants:

1.  Choosing the right implant dentist
   Tooth implants are a complex procedure that must be done with precision and care in order to get the perfect and aesthetically pleasing results. Therefore, when electing to get implants, it is important to choose a skilled dentist who specializes in implant dentistry for affordable dental implants and to maximize the longevity of your implants.
2.  Follow proper post-procedure instructions
   One of the best ways to ensure longevity of your dental implants is by following the proper post-procedure instructions. The post-procedure instructions are made with detailed instructions to promote healing process, avoid complications, and make sure that your implants last for a long time. The better you adhere to the proper aftercare instructions that your dentist gives you, chances of implant failure reduces and the likelihood of implants lasting longer increases.
3.  Avoid smoking and tobacco products
   It’s crucial to avoid smoking and tobacco products in the period following your dental implant procedure and aftercare as they can increase the risk of infection, decrease the success rate of bone grafts and interfere with your body’s ability to heal. Smoking can also damage or block salivary glands, increasing the risk of decay and developing gum disease. Gum disease could cause bone loss which can lead to implant failure.
4.  Practice consistent oral hygiene
   Implants require the same care as natural teeth. Just like natural teeth, daily brushing and water flossing around your implants will help to ensure longevity. Regularly removing plaque and bacteria from your teeth and gums, will prevent the risk of decay, gum disease, bad breath and other dental issues as well as extend the lifespan of your implants.
5.  Visit the dentist regularly
   During regular visits, your dentist will check the health of your implant, clean hard-to-reach areas and remove any built-up plaque and tartar. These cleanings and checkups will help identify problems such as cavities, signs of gum disease or other dental issues before they lead to trouble and the sooner the minor dental problems are treated, the better chance you have of avoiding any complications with your implants.
6.  Drink alcohol in moderation
   Drinking alcohol in moderation can extend the lifespan of your implants. Alcohol not just results in oral cancer, but it can also dry out your mouth causing gum disease and therefore causing your implants to fail. Thus, try to keep alcohol consumption to a minimum.