How Long Do Dental Implants Last?
A dental implant is the best option and the innovative, to replace the whole structure of a single lost or missing tooth, or several teeth, in the field of restorative dentistry.
The artificial tooth roots that support and maintain the natural jawbone where teeth have been lost are called tooth implants. They act as a solid foundation or anchor for the visible part of the false tooth, which could be a denture, bridge, or dental crown.
Having dental implants has many benefits. The lifespan of dental implants is one of their main advantages. Since there is no long-term solution for replacing lost or missing teeth, dental implants are a wise one-time investment.
Components of a Dental Implant
Let’s first examine the overall anatomy of dental implants before getting right into the article’s main question, “How long do dental implants last?
A dental implant consists of three parts:
- Implant: This replaces the lost tooth by surgically inserting an artificial root into the jawbone. Usually composed of titanium, but occasionally zirconium is used.
- Abutment: This is the piece that connects a dental crown to an implant. It firmly secures the crown in place and is affixed to the top of the implant.
- Dental crowns: Typically composed of ceramic, dental crowns mimic real teeth in color. It provides the restored tooth with a natural appearance and feel and is attached to the abutment.
Durability of Dental Implants
If dental implants are properly cared for, with enough brushing and flossing, and if they are routinely checked by a dentist, they will last for many years, if not the patient’s entire life. Dental implants typically last between ten and thirty years. The patient’s age, the time or location of the implant in the mouth, and other factors all affect how long dental implants tend to endure.
Why do Dental Implants Last So Long?
Because of their construction and the substance they are made of, dental implants last longer than other tooth replacement options. The biocompatible titanium is used to make the implants bond to the jawbone to create a long-lasting, strong link. The implant root is covered by the abutment and crown after osseointegration is complete. The implant’s crown is a strong, naturally occurring section of the tooth that is visible. Due to wear and tear, it should be changed after a lifespan of approximately ten to fifteen years.
What Can I Do to Make My Dental Implants Last Longer?
- Maintain proper oral hygiene: Twice a day, brush your teeth properly with a toothbrush and toothpaste. Even though dental implants are impervious to decay, it is crucial to maintain the integrity of natural teeth as well as the gums that directly support the implants.
- Schedule a dental examination twice a year: If the gums and teeth are maintained in a healthy and clean state, dental implants will stay firmly in place. This is something a dental hygienist can handle. Regular dental examinations assist in detecting and treating any problems, such as severe gum disease, that may damage an implant.
- Lead a wholesome lifestyle: Oral and physical health are interdependent. Jawbone damage brought on by gum disease or a calcium and potassium shortage could cause the implant to become unstable and eventually fall out along with the surrounding teeth. Thus, maintaining the stability and health of implants requires eating a balanced diet.
- Give up smoking: Smoking hurts implant health. It may limit blood flow in the gums’ blood vessels, which may have an impact on the fusion of the implant with the jawbone and the healing process that occurs following implant implantation. This implies that the implant could never form a solid and long-lasting foundation for the crown by integrating with the jawbone.
