How long do dental implants last?

Overview: Dental implants can be confusing because they are actually made up of lots of different parts. So when we say that a dental implant is designed to last a lifetime and will never need replacing, this can be misleading without further information. There are also other factors to consider, including how well the patient cares for their dental implant. There are some habits and lifestyle choices that could impact the lifespan of implants, causing the implant to fail and have to be removed. If you’re curious about dental implants but want to know exactly what to expect in the future, this guide is for you. We’re outlining what you can expect from dental implants, how long they should last, and what factors could impact the lifespan of your implants.

Dental implants explained

Dental implants are made up of lots of different parts. First, we have the titanium screw that fits into the jaw bone and bonds with the bone. Next, we have an abutment, which sits on the top of the implant and appears above the surface of the gum. Finally, we have the crown, which is the artificial tooth on top.

When we talk about implants lasting a lifetime, we’re talking about the titanium screw that is fitted into the jaw. This part also requires special care to prevent any issues that could cause the restoration to fail.

The abutment is highly durable and can last up to 25 years or a lifetime, with excellent care. Finally, the crown is the most delicate part of the restoration. This will be exposed to daily wear and tear. If you choose a porcelain crown, it will be susceptible to damage. The crown can usually last for around 12-15 years before it needs to be replaced. However, this all depends on how well you are able to care for it.

What helps to extend the life of dental implants?

There are some home care tips you can adopt to help protect your dental implant. This will ensure that it lasts for as long as possible. This includes:

• Commit to regular dental checkups so that your dentist can monitor your oral health and identify minor issues before they become much more serious.
• Visit the dental hygienist at least once per year for a deep cleaning. This will help to keep your implant free from plaque and tartar build up. Poor dental hygiene can lead to peri-implantitis, which can cause implant failure.
• Brush your teeth twice a day and use special cleaning tools around your implant to ensure that no food debris or plaque can build up around your implant. A water flosser and interdental cleaning tools may help.
• Commit to quit smoking before treatment and make sure this is a lifelong habit change. Smoking can lead to dry mouth, which is a leading cause of gum disease, which can cause implant failure.
• Be careful when chewing certain foods, including hard boiled sweets or popcorn (skip the kernels). You should also avoid using front dental implants for opening packages or tearing sellotape. This simple action can lead to chips and cracks in your crown. 

Summary

The biggest risk to dental implant patients is gum disease, which can allow inflammation to spread to the socket holding the implant. This can cause the bone to recede and will allow the implant to come loose.

Thankfully, there are simple ways you can avoid this. By taking excellent care of your teeth and committing to regular dental checkups, you can help to prolong the life of your dental implants. Following aftercare advice from your dentist will also help to avoid common risks.