Dental implants are a vital investment for your well-being, so it's natural to be curious about their lifespan. Whenever we make a decision that directly relates to our health, knowing just how long this change will impact us is an essential factor in the decision-making process. However, various factors need to be taken into account when determining the longevity of your dental implants.
In this blog, we’re taking a closer look at the average life expectancy of dental implants, and the various factors that can influence this. Read on to learn how long your dental implants should last you.
How Do Dental Implants Work?
Dental implants are an ideal solution for replacing missing teeth and restoring a beautiful, healthy smile. They are composed of a metal post which is surgically placed in the jawbone, as well as an artificial tooth (crown) which is attached to the metal post. The metal post acts as a secure anchor for the crown, mimicking the function of a natural root.
The metal posts come in various shapes and sizes and are usually made from titanium or similar materials. Once this post is inserted into the jawbone, it fuses with the bone as part of an intense healing process called osseointegration. This process takes about 3-6 months to complete, after which the artificial tooth is attached.
Once this process has been completed, the dental implant functions and looks just like a natural tooth – giving you back your confidence and allowing you to smile with ease!
Lifespans and Parts
A dental implant is made up of three different parts and each part has a unique lifespan that can vary on a person-to-person basis. These three parts are:
Implant: The term "implant" refers to the entire setup, but technically, the implant is the screw that is inserted into the patient's jawbone. Composed of titanium or zirconia, this screw acts as the foundation for a crown and has the potential to last a lifetime.
Abutment: The abutment securely fastens the crown to the implant. In general, the abutment has a similar lifespan to the crown, lasting approximately 10 to 15 years.
Crown: The crown, a ceramic tooth covering the abutment, has a predicted lifespan of 10 to 15 years due to regular use and natural deterioration.
Implants can have varying lifespans influenced by several factors. Unfortunately, the location of the implant in the mouth is not something you can control. Back tooth implants, which endure more chewing and grinding, are prone to increased wear and tear. As a result, they may require replacement earlier than implants in the front teeth.
Additionally, certain medical conditions, like cancer and diabetes, can compromise the health of your gums and potentially lead to earlier failure of dental implants. If you are dealing with a medical condition, it is crucial to implement more rigorous oral hygiene practices and promptly contact our team. In some cases, bridges or dentures may be necessary if your mouth is no longer capable of supporting dental implants.
How To Make Your Implants Last Longer
Proper dental hygiene is crucial for maintaining the longevity of your implants. By practicing good oral hygiene habits, you can ensure that your implants will last for a considerable amount of time. Neglecting the health of your teeth, on the other hand, may lead to the need for dental work sooner than anticipated. In order to make your dental implants last as long as possible, it's important to follow these three pieces of advice.
Keep up with your regular dental checkups.
Brush and floss your teeth regularly.
Maintain healthy gums through cleaning.
The Smile Institute Can Help You
A healthy smile is invaluable, and dental implants can help you maintain the full use of your teeth in order to achieve that. When deciding if dental implants are right for you, it is important to know just how long they will last. On average, dental implants have a lifespan of 10-15 years depending on various factors such as location and oral hygiene habits.
At The Smile Institute, our team of experienced dentists is here to answer any questions you may have about dental implants and help guide you in making the right decision for your smile. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help make your dreams of achieving a perfect smile come true!