How Long Do Dental Implants Last?

If you ask a dentist about the best way to replace missing teeth, the vast majority of them will recommend dental implants. After all, this solution is designed to last significantly longer than alternatives like bridges or dentures. They also boast a success rate of 95% or more. Just how long can you expect dental implants in Edison to last? The answer is actually different for everyone. Let’s examine some of the factors that can affect the dental implant lifespan.

Anatomy of a Dental Implant

To fully understand the question of how long dental implants last, we should first examine the three part of a dental implant:

• Implant: The titanium post that is surgically inserted into the jawbone to act as the tooth’s root.
• Abutment: A metal attachment that connects the implant to the crown.
• Crown: A ceramic tooth-shaped cap that is custom-made to mimic your natural tooth.

The crown and abutment are subjected to more force because of chewing. As a result, they often don’t last as long as the implant, which is hidden under the gums.

So, How Long Do Dental Implants Last?

Assuming you brush, floss, and see your dentist for checkups on a regular basis, your dental implant could potentially last a lifetime. The crown, however, might need to be replaced every 10-15 years due to normal wear and tear.

Location also plays a role in a dental implant’s lifespan. Implants in the back of the mouth are more susceptible to damage from chewing, so they often fail more quickly than implants toward the front of the mouth.

How to Prevent Your Dental Implants from Failing

In most cases, good oral hygiene can make your dental implants last for quite a while. Brushing, flossing, and rinsing with an antibacterial mouthwash every day can reduce oral bacteria. Letting bacteria build up can cause gum disease, which weakens the tissues supporting your implants and often leads to implant failure.

It also helps to stay away from harmful oral habits like smoking. If you grind your teeth or play sports, ask your dentist about getting a personalized mouthguard to protect your implants and the rest of your teeth from injury.

In general, taking care of your dental implants doesn’t involve anything you shouldn’t already be doing for your natural teeth. Properly maintaining can ensure you have a lifetime of healthy smiles!

About the Author

Dr. Hiren Shah obtained his doctorate in dentistry from the prestigious New York University. Since then, he has undergone more than 1,000 hours of continuing education courses on dental implants, including All-on-4. He can perform the entire dental implant process under one roof in his Edison, NJ office. To learn more about how to make your implants last, contact Dr. Shah’s practice at (908) 834-8448.