Dental implants are the gold standard for long-term tooth replacement. They look and function much like real teeth - except, they aren’t. But, how long do dental implants last? There are a lot of factors involved in answering this question - and it largely depends on you.
What are Dental Implants?
Sure, missing teeth may be a big deal aesthetically, but it is an issue for the overall health of your mouth, as well. Without something to fill the void of a missing tooth, the teeth around it will begin to shift and the bone structure will begin to deteriorate - which can lead to tooth loss.
Dental implants are the perfect solution. These artificial teeth work beautifully to replace any missing teeth you have, whether it is one, a whole row, or an entire mouth. The best part is that they are as functional as they are beautiful.
They are made up of 3 parts:
- The titanium implant (artificial root)
- The abutment
- The dental crown
The artificial titanium root is implanted into the jaw bone where the two will fuse together over several weeks. Once they are secure, an abutment is added which allows the dental crown to be attached. The entire dental implant comes together creating a tooth that looks and functions just like the real thing.
How Long Do Dental Implants Last?
The dental implant itself - the titanium post - can last a lifetime. The dental crown on top, however, is a bit different. On average, dental crowns last 10 to 15 years before they need to be replaced. However, with a high level of oral hygiene and care, crowns can potentially last as long as 20 or even 30 years. Of course, with poor hygiene, they may not make it past 5 years.
In other words, you play a significant role in how long your dental implants will last.
To extend the life of the dental implants you can:
- Brush your teeth with a soft toothbrush - at least twice per day
- Use low-abrasive toothpaste
- Floss daily
- Rinse with an antimicrobial mouthwash daily
Remember, there is no set timeframe on the life of dental implants. Your level of oral hygiene, the strength and density of your jaw bone, and the location of your dental implant are all factors in just how long your implants will last.
When determining whether or not dental implants are right for you, it is important to take all of this into consideration - as well as your other options. Partials, dentures, and bridges that are not dental-implant supported are effective tools but have a much shorter lifespan. Talk to your dentist and discover whether you are a candidate for dental implants - and if they are the best option for you.
Dental Implants at R. Renan Willaims, DDS
At R. Renan Williams, DDS, we want to see our patients thrive - and that means having a smile they feel confident in. Dental implants can play a huge role in making this happen - and having a highly-skilled dentist like Dr. Williams can add to their longevity. Are you ready to get started?
Contact us today at 817-281-4801 . Or, request an appointment online.