When it comes to tooth replacement options, dental implants are considered the gold standard. They restore missing teeth from the root up, helping regain your bite. However, since they are the most reliable, they are an investment in both time and money. But how long does this treatment last? Here’s a quick guide on what you need to know about the longevity to get the most out of your smile.
So, What Is the Lifespan of Dental Implants?
In short, dental implants can last for 20 years, but they can stay healthy for a lifetime with proper care. That’s because a post is surgically placed into your jawbone. Afterward, over the next several months, the tissues around it will fuse to it through a process called osseointegration. This makes the post become a permanent part of your mouth’s anatomy. Better yet, this treatment is made from titanium or zirconia, which doesn’t decay like natural teeth, so it’s also durable.
How Long Do Restorations on Dental Implants Last?
With that being said, the restoration that sits up top is reliable, but it doesn’t last as long as the fixture itself. Whether it’s a crown, bridge, or denture, they can go strong for about 10 to 15 years. This is because they will get daily wear from you biting and chewing. Thankfully, replacing the portion that sits above the gumline is far cheaper than the entire implant itself. You very well may save money in the long run because of it!
What Affects Dental Implant Longevity?
Dental implants can last for decades and a lifetime, but they can only do so with the proper care. Here’s a breakdown of factors that affect their longevity:
- Your oral hygiene routine plays a big role in removing harmful bacteria that attack the structures supporting it.
- Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can shorten the lifespan of your full smile because they can impact healing, increase the risk of infection, and reduce blood flow.
- Your jawbone needs to be strong and healthy to be a reliable foundation.
- Your overall well-being and systemic conditions have to be managed, as certain conditions like diabetes and autoimmune disorders can affect your recovery and final stability.
Last but not least, you should also keep up with visits to your dentist. By seeing them twice every year, they can monitor your dental implants and make sure that they are staying in great condition. If there is anything worrying, then they can give you the treatment you need to avoid it failing. That way, you get to enjoy your full smile for longer.
About the Author
Dr. Xhelo Shuaipaj earned his dental degree from The Loyola University College of Dental Surgery. He has taken advanced training in procedures like dental implants, allowing him to place them himself. Dr. Xhelo is happy to help you get the full smile you deserve with them, sticking with you every step of the way so you know what you can do to enjoy them for a lifetime. If you want to know how you can better care for your implants, schedule an appointment or call either his Downers Grove or Lemont office.