Tooth loss can detract from your daily quality of life in several ways. Not only is it harder to chew food or enunciate words, but you could also suffer a blow to your self-confidence over your changed appearance. Fortunately, your dentist can replace your missing teeth with dental implants. These prosthetics are often considered the ideal way to rebuild your grin because they’re the only restoration that’s inserted directly into your jawbone for added security and success.
However, they often cost more than alternatives like dentures and dental bridges. As a result, many patients want to ensure they’re worth the investment by knowing how long they typically last. If you’re curious, keep reading to learn more about the typical lifespan of dental implants!
What are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are artificial teeth that are comprised of three main parts, which are:
- Implant. A metal post (usually titanium) is surgically placed into your jaw to act like the root of a tooth.
- Abutment. This piece attaches to the support rod in your jawbone and will eventually hold your dental crown in place.
- Crown. Usually made of durable porcelain, this tooth-shaped cap will match the size, color, and shape of your natural teeth.
Typically, the crown and abutment are more likely to require replacements due to damage or staining than the implant itself.
How Long Do Dental Implants Usually Last?
The rod that’s inserted into your jawbone can potentially last a lifetime if you practice consistent dental hygiene at home and visit your dentist every 6 months. The crown that’s bonded on top of it, however, can generally be expected to wear down after about 10 to 15 years. It can be more or less, depending on how well you care for your teeth.
What Factors Impact the Longevity of My Dental Implant?
Although they’re incredibly strong, the lifespan of your dental implants can be affected by various external influences such as:
- Your dental health. If you have periodontal disease, your gums will recede and can contribute to implant failure.
- Your oral care regimen. If you brush and floss twice daily, your prosthetics will likely last longer.
- What you eat. Overly hard, sticky, crunchy, or sugary foods can chip, crack, or damage your restoration.
- Smoking. Cigarettes, vapes, and other tobacco products contain nicotine, which restricts blood flow and oxygen levels and can cause implant failure even years after placement.
- Bruxism (teeth grinding). The added pressure of constantly crushing your pearly whites together can wear down your dental crown prematurely.
Dental implants can last 15+ years with the right care, while other options, like dentures and dental bridges, typically require replacements after 5 to 10 years. They may be pricier upfront, but in the long run, you could save money with this resilient restoration!
About the Practice
At Roselle Park Dental, patients of all ages and stages of dental development benefit from a team of experts who offer a full range of services under one roof. With general dentists, an implant specialist, an orthodontist, and a pediatric dentist in the office, there’s no issue too complicated for them to handle. With state-of-the-art equipment, they can see you through every step of the implant process onsite, including the surgery. If you’re suffering from tooth loss and would like a consultation, you can request an appointment on the website or by calling (908) 245-1745.