Are Dental Implants Forever?

Dental implants mimic the look and function of a natural tooth. They can last a lifetime, just like a natural tooth, if they are well cared for. If a dental implant does begin to fail, it typically is the crown above the gum and not the post. Certain conditions can decrease the life of a dental implant. Most of these conditions are the same conditions that can cause your natural teeth to fail. 

Materials used in dental implants

The materials that make up dental implants are strong and hypoallergenic. The post placed into the jaw bone is made out of titanium. The jaw then fuses to the bone, providing a firm anchor like the root of a natural tooth. Above the gum line, a metal abutment attaches to the crown. The crown is typically made out of ceramic or porcelain and custom-designed to match your natural teeth.

How long do dental implants last

The crown above the gum line is the most common part of a dental implant to wear out. Fortunately, the crown can be replaced without redoing the entire implant. Crowns have a life expectancy of 15 or more years. The titanium post typically will last a lifetime in a healthy environment. 

The lifespan of a dental implant depends on many factors, primarily health and oral hygiene habits. Dental implants have a success rate of 95% or higher.

What causes dental implants to fail

With proper care, they can last for decades or even a lifetime. However, there are a few things that can cause dental implants to fail, including:

Poor oral hygiene. Plaque and tartar buildup around the implant can cause inflammation and infection of the surrounding tissues. This can lead to implant failure. This is the same infection your natural teeth are susceptible to, which causes gum disease and bone loss. If left untreated, this can lead to tooth loss in both implants and natural teeth.

Smoking. Cigarette smoking decreases blood flow to the jawbone, slowing healing and increasing the risk of implant failure.

Bruxism. Clenching and grinding your teeth can put too much pressure on the implants, causing them to loosen or break.

How to increase the life of your dental implants

A good diet and healthy habits help keep all the tissue strong and resilient to disease. Practicing routine oral hygiene habits reduces bacteria and removes food and plaque from collecting around the teeth, reducing the chance of developing an infection.

How long do dental implants last

While forever can not be promised because too many factors can undermine a dental implant's health, they remain the strongest, most aesthetic, and longest-lived dental restoration. 

Fortunately, dental implants mimic natural teeth, so they need no special care. Brush and floss dental implants just like your natural teeth, and maintain regular dental checkups to get the most out of your dental implants.