How Long Does a Dental Implant Last? Your Guide to Lost Teeth Explained

15 Sep 2024

It can be hard. Losing a tooth can impact your life in lots of ways. In the past, there was nothing to be done to regain your smile after tooth decay or gum disease stole a tooth. But times have changed.

With advances in modern technology, dentists can offer full mouth rehabilitation to replace missing teeth and improve your oral health.

The most common treatment option to repair your smile is a dental implant. These artificial teeth are a perfect imitation of your natural teeth. They restore the confidence that comes with a beautiful smile, they make biting easier and more effective and help you chew.

Many patients come to us with questions about dental implant surgery and its impact on their oral health. We are always happy to help so we’ve put together some of the most interesting information below so you can learn more and decide if an implant is for you.

From all-on-4 dental implants to full mouth restorations, bone grafts, dental crowns, bridges, or dentures, we offer different services tailored to your unique situation and smile.

So, if you’ve ever wondered how long dental implants last, what type of dental implants there are, or perhaps you’re just curious, this is the place to be!

Dental Implants vs Dentures: Comparing Tooth Replacement Options

Typically, there are 3 tooth replacement options to replace missing teeth. All of them involve artificial teeth but the type of dental treatment required to bond or fix them changes.

Removable dentures are a custom-made “frame” that fits into your mouth to fill in the gaps. They last anywhere between 5 and 10 years.

Dental bridges are the next most durable option, lasting between 10 and 15 years. They are cemented to your natural teeth and require shaving down of adjacent teeth.

The most durable option is a dental implant which fixes a crown to a surgically implanted post. This can last for more than 30 years, or even a lifetime.

These estimates are based on proper care and attention to your chosen tooth replacement treatment option. While artificial teeth are hardy, they’re not invincible so it’s important to look after them as you would natural teeth. This helps prevent replacements or gum disease (also known as periodontal disease) and addresses common issues associated with other tooth replacement options.

Are Tooth Replacements Comfortable?

Removable dentures tend to be comfortable and work well once they’ve been adjusted appropriately. They don’t require dental implant surgery which is a plus. However, they must be removed and cleaned every night to maintain oral hygiene. They can also lead to loss of bone density in the jaw which will mean they need to be refitted.

Bridges are comfortable too, but they may still require cleaning. This can be tricky as it requires a specialist. They can be

Dental implants are the most comfortable as they closely mimic your natural teeth. You can speak normally, enjoy eating and your oral hygiene is the same i.e. you brush, floss, and use mouthwash in exactly the same way as you always have. This comfort is largely due to precise implant placement, which ensures stability and functionality similar to natural teeth.

Are Dental Implants Expensive?

If cost is the only consideration, removable dentures are initially the most affordable, however, they need to be replaced more often. This is especially true if you forget to clean them each night.

Bridges are more expensive than removable dentures but need to be replaced less frequently. However, they do need to be replaced which needs to factor into your financial planning.

Dental implants last a lifetime and don’t need to be replaced or maintained. While their initial cost is higher, they offer the best return as they tend to be more cost-effective over their lifespan. Avoiding dental implant failure through proper care and management of conditions like diabetes can further enhance their cost-effectiveness.

The Lifespan of Different Implant Components

Lots of things impact the lifespan of a dental implant. Each component has different considerations:

1) The Implant Post

The healing process is crucial for the longevity of the implant post. Disruptions during this phase, such as those caused by smoking, can interfere with successful osseointegration and lead to implant failure.

2) Abutment (the part that connects the crown with the post)

3) The Crown

How Durable is The Implant Post?

The implant post is made of titanium, an incredibly strong metal and requires dental implant surgery to place it into the jaw via a bone graft. It is designed to last a lifetime. Bone grafting is often necessary to ensure the stability of the implant post, especially for patients with insufficient jawbone. Your body accepts the post, effectively fusing it so that it can act as a foundation for tooth replacement.

They last an impressively long time. After 17 years, 93% of these implants last with many lasting for 30 years or more.

How Durable is the Abutment?

The abutment connects the implant post to the dental crown. As it’s on the front line, it’s impacted by wear and tear. They typically last up to 15 years. With proper care and regular checkups, your dentist can help ensure that your abutment lasts for a long time. Proper care can also prevent implant failure, which can be caused by factors such as common medical conditions, smoking, and insufficient oral hygiene.

How Long Do Crowns Last?

Dental crowns are the bit of the dental implant you can see. Naturally, they absorb the most wear and tear and are susceptible to chips or cracks. In many cases, they will last anywhere between 10 and 15 years although some last a lifetime.

Excellent dental hygiene can extend the life of dental crowns. Often your dentist can repair the dental crown without needing to replace it which will further increase their lifespan.

Make the Most of Your Dental Implants

Always choose an experienced implant dentist. They will have advanced training which is crucial to ensuring the longevity of your implant and your ongoing oral health.

See if they are members of an accredited organization such as the American Academy of Implant Dentistry (AAID).

Experienced implant dentists will have before and after photos and testimonials to allow you to see their work and make sure it’s up to standard.

Best Post-Care for your Dental Implants

After tooth replacement, there will be a set of instructions to follow. Typically this means you should avoid spitting, using straws, or smoking for 24 hours. For any swelling, use ice packs. Gentle pressure will help resolve any bleeding.

As always, brush your teeth gently and rinse with salt water. This is anti-bacterial and will help reduce the risk of infection or periodontal disease (gum disease).

Looking After Your Dental Implants Long Term

Oral hygiene is the best way to maintain your dental implants. Brushing twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and flossing regularly will protect your dental crown while reducing the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Antimicrobial mouthwash is also important, you can get recommendations from your dentist.

Get ahead of any problems by scheduling regular checkups. Professional cleans will not only ensure your dental implants last longer but are an excellent way to maintain your holistic oral hygiene.

More generally, try to avoid staining foods like wine or coffee. Smoking tobacco can stain artificial teeth like dental crowns, bridges or dentures so try to avoid this too.

Dental Implants: Is it worth it? Understanding the Risk of Implant Failure

Modern progress in dentistry has meant that dental implant surgery is a safe and reliable way to ensure a long-lasting tooth replacement.

Choosing the right dental implant specialist and following the instructions after your chosen treatment option means you can have a complete, winning smile that you can be proud of for the rest of your life.

We are happy to help. Here at Greenspoint Dental, we know that making a fully informed decision is essential to realize the long-term, life-changing impacts that dental implants can have.

To learn more and take a step forward to fixing your smile, reach out to us for a consultation. We can thoroughly evaluate the problem, and schedule appointments and checkups to make sure you have the best possible experience and care.

We know that losing a tooth can be devastating and difficult. We’re here to help, which is why we focus on patient-centric, comfort-focused care. We accept many different dental insurance plans, such as CareCredit, Lending Club, and the HELPcard.

Please call (281) 823-9987 today or contact us for a consultation.

FAQs

1. Is it possible to have a long lifespan with dental implants?

Yes, dental implants can last a lifetime with the right care. They also contribute to your overall health by improving your bite and jaw strength and reducing the likelihood of tooth decay and gum disease.

2. What is the expected longevity of dental implants after 20 years?

Dental implants are durable due to their bone graft and acceptance by the body. Most implants last 15 to 20 years. However, like our natural teeth, they are susceptible to age, damage, or wear and tear which can impact their lifespan.

3. What does maintaining dental implants involve?

Look after them just like you would with your natural teeth. Brush twice a day, floss, and use dentist-recommended mouthwash. Ask your dentist about the best toothpaste, toothbrushes, and mouthwash for the best possible care.

4. How can I extend the life of my dental implants?

There are steps you can take from day 1 to ensure the best possible lifespan of your implants:

Choose a qualified, accredited implant dentist.
Keep good habits by brushing and flossing regularly.
Stay up to date with checkups and cleanings – every 6 months gives you the best chance of having lifelong implants.
Avoid smoking or tobacco products.
Teeth grinding can be a problem so ask about a mouthguard to protect your implant at night.