Dental implants are an effective way to replace missing teeth. Made from strong, biocompatible titanium, the implants are surgically inserted into the jawbone, fusing with the bone tissue over time. This fusion helps to keep the implant post securely in place, allowing for the normal function of the teeth.
However, due to the materials used and the complexity of the treatment, implants typically have a higher initial cost than other tooth replacement options. This leaves many patients wondering, how long do dental implants last?
Dental implant longevity depends on several factors. These include how well the implant is cared for, the quality of the materials used, and how much stress is placed on the implant.
Learn about the average lifespan of a dental implant and the factors that impact longevity to determine if dental implants are the right tooth replacement option for you.
How Long Do Dental Implants Last?
On average, the implant post should last a lifetime because the metal fuses with the jawbone. However, the restoration placed on top of the post (such as a crown or bridge) will need to be replaced every 15-20 years.
Several factors can affect the number of years your implant lasts. These include:
Patient Age
The patient’s age can impact how long dental implants last. Older patients may be at a higher risk of dental implant failure due to decreased healing capacity or weakened immune systems. They are also more prone to systemic diseases like diabetes and head and neck cancers that can increase the risk of failure. Discover more.
Jawbone Quality
Leaving missing teeth untreated for prolonged periods can lead to bone resorption due to a lack of stimulation from biting and chewing. This can reduce jaw bone density and thickness, so it may be unable to support an implant. In these cases, your dentist may recommend a bone grafting procedure before implant placement to improve its stability and strength.
Implant Location
Dental implants that replace teeth at the back of the dental arch may have a shorter lifespan than implants positioned at the front of the mouth. Implants placed on the lower (mandibular) jaw have a lower survival rate than those in the upper (maxillary) jaw.
Teeth at the back of the dental arch sustain higher bite forces and lateral pressure due to grinding; however, front teeth are more prone to accidental damage from facial trauma.
Post Length and Diameter
Dental implants that are too short or narrow may be unable to fuse with the bone tissue, making them more prone to failure over time. In these cases, your dentist may recommend using a longer or wider post to improve its stability and reduce the risk of failure.
Immune System Health
A healthy immune system is essential for healing and supporting the body during recovery from dental implant surgery. If the patient has a weakened or compromised immune system, this may increase their risk of implant failure and complications.
Maintaining adequate nutrition, avoiding excessive stress, and following recommended post-surgical care instructions can help promote a swift and successful recovery. Find further details.
Oral Hygiene Habits
Poor oral hygiene is one of the main risk factors for dental implant failure; it can increase the risk of infection and inflammation around the incision site.
By brushing and flossing twice daily, you can help minimise your risk of complications and improve your dental implants’ lifespan.
Get a Free Dental Consultation Near You
If you’re considering implants to replace missing teeth, get a free consultation at your local dental clinic to determine if the treatment is right for you. Implants are designed to provide you with a lifetime of good oral health.
At Bright Dental Group, we use cutting-edge technology, including CBCT scanning, to create a personalised treatment plan. Our dentist is happy to answer your questions about how many years your implant should last and address any concerns you may have about the procedure.
Call us on (02) 4708 9691 today or visit our website to find a dentist that offers a free consultation. .
Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
References
Summary review of the survival of single crowns
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19146146/
Factors Affecting the Survival Rate of Dental Implants: A Retrospective Study
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5774056/
Although dental implants have been used in dentistry since the 1960s, recent innovations such as digital imaging, CAD/CAM technology, and Read more
Recent Comments