You may be looking into dental implants as a solution for your tooth loss, but if they take a while to heal from and then only last for a short time, is an implant really the best option?
Implants mimic your natural tooth roots, meaning they last just as long as natural teeth (or longer). While the implant itself is designed to be permanent, the restoration attached to it—such as a crown, bridge, or implant-supported denture—may need to be replaced over time due to normal wear and tear.
Understanding the lifespan of each component and how to maintain them is essential for ensuring a lifetime of confident, functional smiles.
How Long Do Dental Implants Last?
Once implants are placed in the jawbone, they integrate fully in a process called osseointegration. This integration provides unmatched stability and helps maintain jawbone health, preventing the bone loss that typically follows tooth loss.
With proper care and maintenance, dental implants can last a lifetime. Daily brushing, flossing, and routine dental visits play a crucial role in ensuring the implant remains healthy and secure. Together, with Dr. Cast, we can also address habits such as tooth grinding or smoking that may damage your implants.
Replacing the Restorations on Implants
While the titanium implant post is built to last, the restoration that sits on top of it—whether a crown, bridge, or denture—experiences daily wear and may require periodic replacement. Here’s what to expect:
- Implant Crowns | These restorations typically last 10–15 years before natural wear may require a replacement. With excellent care, some crowns can last even longer.
- Implant Bridges | Bridges supported by implants tend to last around 10 years, though their lifespan depends on how well they are maintained.
- Implant-Supported Dentures | These restorations provide a full-arch replacement and may require adjustments or replacement after 10–15 years, especially if the materials experience wear over time.
Regular checkups at Evolution Dental allow Dr. Cast to monitor the condition of implant restorations. We can replace or adjust your restorations as needed without compromising the integrity of the implant itself.
Can Dental Implants Fail?
While dental implants have an impressive success rate of over 95%, failure can still occur in rare cases. The most common causes of implant failure include:
- Peri-implantitis | This condition, similar to gum disease, occurs when plaque buildup leads to inflammation and infection around the implant. Without proper care, it can weaken the supporting bone and cause the implant to loosen.
- Bone Loss | Certain medical conditions, as well as lifestyle habits like smoking, can contribute to bone deterioration of the jaw bone, which may lead to implant failure.
- Bruxism (Teeth Grinding) | Excessive pressure from grinding or clenching can stress the implant, leading to complications over time.
Preventing Implant Failure
To ensure the long-term success of dental implants, preventative care is key. Here are a few steps to help keep your implants in perfect condition:
- Maintain Good Oral Hygiene | Brush and floss daily, and consider using a water flosser to clean around the implant.
- Avoid Smoking and Excessive Alcohol | These habits can slow healing, increase the risk of infection, and weaken the bone supporting the implant.
- Use a Night Guard if You Grind Your Teeth | Bruxism can put excessive stress on implants, so wearing a night guard can protect them from damage.
- Attend Regular Dental Checkups | Routine visits to Evolution Dental allow Dr. Cast to monitor your implants and restorations, ensuring they stay secure and functional for years to come.
- Visit a Trained Implantologist | Dental implants have a higher likelihood of failing if they are placed improperly. Visiting a dentist who can plan for proper placement increases the chances of a successful implant.
Dr. Cast and Dr. Lee are skilled implantologists in the field, experts at placing implants that last. They will accurately place implants to provide longevity, and help you maintain your implant and restorations.
A Lifetime of Confidence with Dental Implants
Dental implants provide a long-lasting, reliable solution for tooth replacement, with the investment leading to permanent results.
If you’re considering dental implants or have questions about maintaining your existing implants, Evolution Dental in Palm Desert, CA, is here to help. Schedule a consultation today to learn how implants can provide you with a confident, lifelong smile.