Are you looking for sturdy, standalone replacement teeth that you can count on? If so, you might benefit from getting dental implants. Unlike other restorations, these include a titanium rod inserted directly into your jaw, which fuses with the bone for added security. This gives them several advantages over alternatives like dentures or dental bridges, including increased longevity.
If you’re considering dental implants but aren’t sure how long they usually last, continue reading to learn more!
What Are Implants Made From?
Before diving into the details of how long these restorations last, it’s essential to understand how they’re built. These durable prosthetics comprise three main parts, and they are:
- Implant. The portion that is embedded into your jaw is a small post, usually made of lightweight but resilient titanium, that fuses with your bone tissue and functions like a root.
- Abutment. This small piece connects the implant to the replacement tooth.
- Pontics (artificial teeth). For single implants, this consists of a customized dental crown. However, several implants can support a bridge or specially designed dentures for those missing multiple teeth.
The implant itself can potentially last a lifetime, though you might eventually have to repair or replace the abutment or the prosthetic.
How Long Do Dental Implants Last?
Typically, these restorations can go 10 to 15 years before daily wear and tear requires any repairs, but it can depend on your unique circumstances. Some factors that can affect their lifespan can include:
- Your dental hygiene routine. Issues like tooth decay or gum disease that can affect your jawbone can potentially cause implant failure. Consistently brushing and flossing your teeth twice daily removes plaque and bacteria to prevent this.
- Grinding your teeth. Patients with bruxism, or chronic teeth-grinding, might chip, crack, or erode their prosthetics more quickly because of all the added pressure.
- Initial implant placement. Poor-quality implants, or ones that aren’t inserted correctly, are more likely to fail, so it’s crucial that you visit a qualified professional.
- Its location in your mouth. Implants in the back sustain more damage from chewing and are prone to wearing down faster.
- Unhealthy habits. Smoking cigarettes, vapes, or chewing tobacco can all cause implant failure because they contain nicotine. This dangerous chemical suppresses your immune system and leaves you vulnerable to infection. It also makes your blood cells unable to deliver the necessary nutrients to your mouth to recover effectively.
Thankfully, keeping your implants in great shape is as simple as brushing and flossing your teeth twice daily. You should also visit your dentist every six months for a routine checkup so they can monitor your condition and ensure that your teeth and gums all stay healthy!
About the Practice
At Weiss Dental Arts, you and your family benefit from a team of dentists who work together to offer a full array of services conveniently under one roof. With 20+ years of combined experience, they are experienced working with patients of all ages. They combine a compassionate approach with state-of-the-art equipment to enhance your comfort while delivering accurate, long-lasting results. They have the training and technology in the office to place your implant and create your restoration without a need for outside providers. You can request an appointment on the website or call (847) 864-0188.