Are you searching for the best way to bring back your missing teeth? Dental implants are the closest option to having your original pearly whites back. Instead of sitting on your gums or remaining teeth, dental implants are anchored in the jaw. Not only does this make them feel natural and always stay in place, but they can also last for much, much longer than regular dentures and dental bridges. But just how long do dental implants last? Keep reading to learn the answer!
The Average Lifespan of Dental Implants
Out of all the tooth replacement options, dental implants are unquestionably the most durable. While dentures usually break down after five to 10 years, and dental bridges after 10 to 15, dental implants can last for several times longer. On average, they can last for 30+ years, but many patients are able to keep their new teeth for the rest of their lives!
It’s worth mentioning that the implant post, which is embedded in your jawbone, is the part that’s designed to last. The crown, bridge, or denture on top of the implant may need to be replaced after about a decade, but the post itself should stand the test of time.
Factors That Affect How Long Dental Implants Last
Just because dental implants can last a lifetime doesn’t automatically mean they will. Certain factors can cut a dental implant’s lifespan short. These include:
- Poor oral hygiene – Dental implants can’t decay like natural teeth, but they can still fail if the gums supporting them become infected. That’s why it’s still important to brush and floss when you have dental implants since it goes a long way toward preventing gum disease.
- Teeth grinding – A condition called bruxism causes a person to clench and grind their teeth without knowing it, often while sleeping. Over time, this pressure can exert serious wear and tear on dental implants.
- Tobacco use – If you smoke or chew tobacco after getting dental implants, the posts may be unable to fuse with your jawbone. However, tobacco can increase the risk of gum disease at any point. Some studies suggest that smoking can double or even triple the chances of gum disease, which could all too easily lead to dental implant failure.
Taking Care of Dental Implants
Luckily, making your dental implants last shouldn’t be difficult at all! Instead of having to take your prosthetic teeth out at night, scrub them, and let them soak, you can simply brush and floss your implant restorations as if they were your natural teeth. In this way, dental implant maintenance is so simple that you might even forget that you have implants in the first place!
In the end, the best way to know how long your dental implants will last is to schedule a consultation with your dentist or oral surgeon. They can give you a timeline estimate as well as tips for maintaining a healthy, complete smile for years or decades to come!
About the Author
Dr. J. Darrell Steele is an oral surgeon in Coppell, TX with decades of experience. At Steele Dental, he is proud to be the first oral surgeon in the Dallas-Fort Worth area to have used the YOMI dental implant robot. With robot-assisted dental implant surgery, you can rest assured that your procedure will be incredibly safe, comfortable, and predictable. If you’re interested in exploring your options for dental implants, you can contact Dr. Steele by calling (972) 315-3355.
