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How Long Do Dental Implants Last?

If you’re one of the millions of Americans looking for a solution for their missing teeth, then you know that doing your research is important. You should know exactly what you’re getting and how it will help to restore your smile. One of the things you want to consider is how long a tooth replacement option will last before you need to get it repaired or replaced. This is part of the reason why dental implants have become so popular over the past few years. But, how long do dental implants last? And how can you ensure they last as long as possible? Continue reading to learn more about the longevity of dental implants from our dentist in Point Pleasant!

How Long Do Dental Implants Last?

Dental implants have a lifespan of 25 years+! But their longevity depends on a multitude of different factors. Here are some that affect them the most:
  • Maintenance
  • Location of the implant
  • Skills of your dentist
  • Gum health
  • Certain health conditions

What Are Dental Implants Made Out Of?

Dental implants are made out of there different components:
  • Implant – this is a titanium post that’s surgically implanted into the jawbone. Titanium is biocompatible, so it fuses well with bone and serves as your new tooth root. The implant is the most permanent part of a dental implant, as it attaches and fuses directly with your jawbone.
  • Abutment – the abutment is a metal connector that attaches to the implant and services as a base for the dental crown.
  • Crown – a dental crown is attached to the abutment, giving you back your natural smile! This is the part of a dental implant that might need to be replaced at some point during the implant’s lifespan.

Are Dental Implants Permanent?

You have probably heard implants be referred to as a permanent tooth replacement option. While they are long-lasting, they do not necessarily last forever: the implant itself is the longest lasting part of a dental implant, however, the crown will likely need replacement at some point. Dental implants are considered a permanent tooth-replacement solution. The implant is placed directly into your jaw bone, solidifying it with the surrounding bone tissue. Once the implant and bone are fused together, it acts as your new “tooth root”, allowing the abutment and crown to be placed. While the implant portion is designed to be permanent, the crown will likely need to be replaced within 10-20 years.

How Can You Prolong the Life of Your Dental Implants?

There are a few factors in your control that can help to increase the longevity of your implants. Here’s what you should do:
  • Choose an experienced dentist: When you’re getting any procedure done, you want to ensure that the healthcare professional knows exactly what they’re doing. Before you get your implants, ask the dentist about how long they’ve been placing implants and how often they do it. Read about them online. You should be informed about whose hands you will be in.
  • Practice good oral hygiene: The longevity of your implants depends on daily flossing and brushing. If you aren’t keeping up with good dental hygiene, you are more likely to develop periodontal disease which can cause an implant to fail, and require additional gum disease treatment.
  • Be careful: Remember that your teeth are not tools, even if they aren’t your natural teeth. Chewing on nonfood items like pencils, pens, and packaging can cause your implants to become damaged over time.
  • See your dentist regularly: When you go in for your regular appointment, you generally receive a professional cleaning as well as a checkup. If there is an issue in your mouth that could lead to the failure of your implant, then it’s important that your dentist catches it early so it can be treated!
  • Avoid smoking and excessive drinking: health conditions associated with smoking and excessive drinking can lead to failed implants. It’s best to avoid smoking and limit alcohol intake to prolong the life of your dental implants.

Why Do Dental Implants Fail?

While dental implants are a long-lasting solution, there are a couple of reasons they could fail.

Unrelated Health Conditions

The main reasons that dental implants fail are related to health conditions such as cancer, cardiovascular disorders, and diabetes. While these health issues can develop after you’ve received dental implants and cause them to fail later down the line, they could also be pre-existing conditions. In some instances, if you have certain pre-existing conditions, dental implants may not be the best treatment option if your dentist believes they have a high risk of failing. In that case, we’ll look at alternative tooth replacement options such as dentures or dental bridges.

Periodontal Disease

If you don’t keep up with oral hygiene standards, it could lead to gum disease. This can cause dental implant failure because of its ability to cause damage to your gums and jawbone. Implant failure can also occur if plaque starts to build up around the implant itself.

Dental Implants in Point Pleasant, NJ

Replacing your missing teeth is a huge decision, and dental implants have proven to be effective in helping patients get their smile back. By doing your research and taking proper care of them, you will be able to show off your implants for years to come! If you’re interested in dental implants in Point Pleasant, call us today or schedule an appointment online!

About the Author

Dr. Joseph Zicchino established Coastal Dental Group in 2004 and has been serving Point Pleasant, NJ ever since. He earned his dental degree from NYU Dental School and completed his residency at Mountainside Hospital in Montclair. Dr. Zicchino offers dental implants as a teeth replacement option. For more information call (732) 714-1030 or to schedule an appointment!