If you have lost a tooth, you are not alone. Millions of adults deal with tooth loss and find themselves seeking alternative options.
Dental implants are the gold standard in tooth replacement. They have a very natural appearance and they function much like a real tooth. Unless they are told, no one is likely to even know the tooth isn’t real.
If dental implants are your chosen alternative, how long can you expect them to last?
How Do Dental Implants Work?
Dental implants come in multiple parts. A small artificial titanium root is implanted into your jawbone through a small incision. This is left to fuse together and create a strong anchor for your future artificial tooth. This is what makes a dental implant function so well.
Once it is healed and ready to go, an abutment is added to the implant and then a dental crown is attached. This crown is made to blend in naturally with your teeth.
In all, the process can take a few months to complete since it is done in stages. The good news is that all the waiting yields long-lasting results.
Some patients will have to undergo additional treatments as part of getting their dental implants. For instance, this may include tooth extraction or even bone grafting if the jaw bone is not dense enough to hold the implant.
If either of these things is needed, you may need to allow a little more time to complete them - though know that they do not impact the overall lifespan of a dental implant.
How Long Do Dental Implants Last?
Many consider dental implants to be permanent tooth replacements because the new root is fused with the bone. And, as a result, it should last a lifetime. As long as it was implanted properly and your jawbone remains strong, you shouldn’t have anything to worry about.
The tooth replacement portion of the dental implant, such as the dental crown or dental bridge, may need to be replaced every 10 to 15 years. However, it is worth noting that with exceptional care, they are known to last upwards of 20 years or so.
What Impacts a Dental Implant’s Longevity?
There are a few factors that could impact a dental implant’s longevity. And while it is not always the case, the following may play a role in how long you may maintain your implant:
- Your level of oral hygiene
- Whether or not there is sufficient bone
- Smoking yields a lower success rate
- Bruxism or teeth grinding/clenching can loosen or fracture the implant
- Certain medical conditions can lead to failure
The skill and experience of your dental team also play a role in how successful your dental implants are - and how long they will last.
Are Dental Implants Right For You?
Interested in learning more about dental implants? The team at Belmont Family Dentistry understands the positive impact that precisely placed dental implants can have on patients. And we offer exceptional dental implant treatment.
If you are ready to find out whether or not you are a good candidate for dental implants, contact us today at 617-484-1760. Or, request an appointment online.