Dental implants are a modern solution to missing teeth. They are a great way to restore your smile, your ability to chew, and your self-confidence. But just how long do dental implants last?
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are small titanium posts surgically inserted into the jawbone to replace missing teeth. They are a secure foundation for permanent or removable replacement teeth, such as bridges, crowns, and dentures.
How Long Do Dental Implants Last?
Dental implants are designed to last a lifetime. With proper care, they can last decades or longer. However, the success of dental implants depends on the patient’s oral hygiene and overall health. If you don’t take care of your implants, your dentist may need to replace them sooner.
The Factors That Can Affect the Lifespan of Dental Implants
- Oral Hygiene: Poor oral hygiene can lead to gum disease and bone loss, which can lead to dental implant failure. Brushing and flossing your teeth regularly and visiting your dentist for regular check-ups are important.
- Smoking: Smoking can reduce the success rate of dental implants and increase the risk of implant failure.
- Overall Health: Poor overall health can increase the risk of implant failure.
- Age: As you age, the bone in your jaw begins to deteriorate, which can affect the success rate of dental implants.
- Medications: Certain medications can reduce the success rate of dental implants.
- Habits: Habits such as grinding your teeth or clenching your jaw can put extra stress on the implants, leading to failure.
- Genetics: Genetics can play a role in the success rate of dental implants, as some people have a higher risk of implant failure due to their jaw structure.
The Benefits of Dental Implants
Protects against Bone Loss
Dental implants are the only tooth replacement option that can help prevent bone loss in the jaw. When you lose a tooth, the bone in your jaw can start to deteriorate. Dental implants are the only tooth replacement option to help prevent this process by stimulating the bone and keeping it strong.
Improves Appearance
Dental implants look like natural teeth, making them the most natural-looking tooth replacement option. They can also help improve the shape of your face and jawline and your smile.
Improves Oral Health
Dental implants help keep the other teeth in your mouth healthy by preventing the shifting of teeth. They also make it easier to maintain good oral hygiene because they don’t require special cleaning tools or techniques.
Provides Comfort
Dental implants are the most comfortable tooth replacement option because they don’t require any special maintenance or adjustments. They also don’t cause discomfort or pain when you eat, unlike dentures which can be uncomfortable.
The Bottom Line
Dental implants are a great option for those looking for a long-term solution to replace missing teeth. With proper care and maintenance, dental implants can last for a lifetime. While certain factors can affect an implant’s longevity, such as the type of implant used, the implant’s placement, and the implant’s quality, these factors can be managed with proper care and maintenance. Therefore, with appropriate care and maintenance, dental implants can be an excellent investment for those looking for a long-term solution to replace missing teeth.
Danvers Aesthetic Family Dentistry offers dental implants and other dental services. Book your appointment now.