We often get asked if dental implants last forever?

Let’s examine the lifespan of dental implants.

Nearly 120 million Americans alone are missing one of their natural teeth. In addition, a staggering 36 million individuals are missing more than one tooth due to decay, or infection.

For patients who have missing teeth and have considered dental implants, this blog is for you. Many people hesitate to have dental implants because they have a fear of the dentist or simply have unanswered questions about the longevity of dental implants. For example, “Do dental implants last forever?”

Lasting Dental Implants

“How long do dental implants last?” is a frequently asked question. The answer varies on several variables, including dental implant aftercare. Dental implants are becoming an increasingly popular option for people who are missing one or more teeth. Unlike dentures or bridges, implants are a permanent solution that can last a lifetime with proper care. The implant itself is a small screw that is placed into the jawbone, and the crown is the artificial tooth that is attached to the screw. (As pictured above)

With regular brushing and flossing, the implant screw itself can last a lifetime, assuming the patient receives regular dental check-ups every 6 months. The crown, however, usually only lasts about 10 to 15 years before it may need a replacement due to wear and tear. However, maintaining excellent dental hygiene and using it cautiously could extend the life of the crown beyond 15 years.

Overall, dental implants are a great option for people missing one or more teeth, and with proper care, they can last a lifetime.

What Affects How Long Dental Implants Last?

The longevity of dental implants varies from patient to patient.

Your age may influence how quickly your bone adapts to the implant surgery. The older you get, the more bone loss we experience so choosing a dental implant specialist with the clearest dental technology is important. 

Dental implants are a long-term permanent tooth replacement option

One implant can replace one tooth. An implant is covered by a crown that looks like a natural tooth.

Dental implants can also be used to replace teeth across the mouth. When there are few teeth, implants can support dentures better than denture adhesives. We sometimes refer to this as implant-supported dentures or All-on-four dentures. In addition, mini-implants can support complete dentures in place of larger ones. These are the implant, abutment, and crown. The implant itself acts like a tooth’s root. It’s a titanium post that’s surgically placed into the jaw.

How Does The Abutment and Crown Work 

The abutment secures the prosthetic tooth. This portion is fastened onto the implant above the jawbone. The crown is the visible component of a natural tooth. Dental crowns are generally ceramic, but cheaper alternatives do exist. The abutment holds it. The quality of your dental implant materials does matter when it comes to longevity so be sure to ask Dr. Josh about the high-quality dental implant materials we use. 

Some Dental Implant Advantages

A dental implant has several advantages. Among the benefits of an implant:

• Regain the confidence to smile again
• Eternal (unlike removable dentures)
• Missing or broken teeth make eating simpler.
• Speech comfort versus missing teeth
• It prevents jawbone loss due to missing teeth

Removing Dental Implants

Dental implants aren’t the only or even the best alternative in the absence of teeth. Bridges, dentures, dental crowns, and mini-implants are all conventional tooth replacement choices.

Factors Affecting Dental Implant Durability

Dental implants, as stated previously, endure 25 years. However, there are several reasons why implants may last less or more than average. These are explained below.

• Oral Care
• Food and Chewing
• Dentist Talent
• Implant Site
• Tobacco and alcohol
• Your Overall Health Issues
• Bone Density

Do You Have Additional Questions About Dental Implants?

Lasting dental implants No way. But with appropriate care, they may live for years. Do you have any more questions concerning dental implants? Do you want to schedule a dental implant consultation? We welcome you to schedule a dental implant consultation with your Grand Junction Dentist, Dr. Josh Eastham.