How Long Do Teeth Implants Last?

If you have missing teeth but good overall jawbone health, your dentist has probably suggested implant dentistry to restore your oral health. And, certainly, the benefits of teeth implants are appealing: 

• They are a long-lasting solution to missing teeth 
• They provide a natural-looking restorative solution 
• They restore both the function and appearance of your smile 
• They support jaw bone health 
• You don't have to worry about the implant becoming loose or falling while eating or speaking. 

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But, because implants can be quite costly, you want to know how long they will last. In other words, is the investment worth it? The answer is a resounding yes, and let us tell you why. 

Teeth Implants Are Designed to Be Permanent 

Dental implants are referred to as permanent restorative solutions and here's why. The metal post that will act as the root of the artificial tooth is inserted into the jawbone and integrates with the bone and tissue. After this process (called osseointegration) is complete and the metal post can provide a secure foundation for the new tooth, your dentist will add the abutment and dental crown. 

However, although the metal post can last a lifetime, the dental crown is exposed to external factors and has a limited lifespan. With proper care, the dental crown of an implant can last between 15 and even 20 years. 

Factors That Can Affect Your Implant

While an implant has the potential to last forever, certain factors can affect its longevity:

• The Quality of the Implant: Not all dental implants are the same. You may be tempted to opt for cheaper implant dentistry, but low-quality materials also mean that your implant may not last as long. 

• Maintenance: Dental implants require very basic maintenance, such as brushing and flossing and going to regular dental check-ups. Neglecting your oral hygiene can lead to decay and gum disease, conditions that can affect the integrity of your implant. 

• Your Lifestyle: Certain habits such as smoking and grinding or clenching of teeth can put additional stress on dental implants and reduce their lifespan.

• Bone Density: Both the health and density of the jawbone play a significant role in the success of dental implants. Without enough bone mass, your implant will likely fail. Not to worry, your dentist will examine your overall oral health and recommend additional treatments such as bone grafting prior to implant placement to ensure the success of your procedure.

Do You Want to Restore Your Smile? Book an Implant Consultation with Mestichelli Barnes Dental Associates

If you've tried other restorative solutions but weren't happy with the results or if you just want to learn more about teeth implants, the team at Mestichelli Barnes Dental Associates is here to answer all your questions. Then, based on a thorough examination of your oral health, we can determine if dental implants are the right option for you or if you need to consider alternative treatments.

Use the online contact form to schedule your appointment with us.

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