Dental Implant How Long Does it Last? Tips for Making it Last Longer

Dental implants have revolutionized the way we approach tooth replacement. They’re durable, functional, and look just like natural teeth.

But if you’re considering getting an implant or already have one, you might be wondering: How long do dental implants last, and what are the things that you can do to make them last for longer? To find out the answers to those, read on.

What is the Lifespan of a Dental Implant?

Dental implants are designed to be a long-term solution for missing teeth.

According to oral health experts, the expected lifespan of implants, including the titanium implant post and other parts of the implant, can last a lifetime if properly cared for.

Titanium is a biocompatible material, meaning it fuses with your bone and becomes a permanent part of your jaw. This fusion process, called osseointegration, is what makes implants so stable and durable.

Nonetheless, the crown may need replacement after a decade or so due to normal wear and tear. Other factors are at play that can shorten the crown’s lifespan – you’ll learn more about them below.

Factors that Affect the Longevity of Dental Implants

While dental implants are built to last and enjoy a high success rate, their lifespan isn’t entirely out of your control.

Here are some key factors that can influence how long your implant lasts:

1. Oral Hygiene Habits
   Just like your natural teeth, implants require consistent care. Brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and using an antibacterial mouthwash can prevent infections and keep your artificial tooth implant in top shape.
   Neglecting your oral hygiene can lead to peri-implantitis, a condition similar to gum disease that can cause complications to your implant post and crown – which will eventually lead to total implant failure.
2. Regular Dental Check-ups
   Visiting your dentist every six months is crucial. Your dentist can spot potential issues early, such as signs of infection or loosening of the implant. In addition, professional cleanings remove plaque and tartar that you can’t eliminate at home.
3. Lifestyle Choices
   Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can negatively impact your implant’s longevity. Smoking, in particular, reduces blood flow to the gums, slowing healing and increasing the risk of infection.
4. Diet and Eating Habits
   Chewing on hard objects like ice, pens, or hard candies can damage both your natural teeth and your implant. Stick to a balanced diet and avoid habits that put unnecessary stress on your implant.
5. Overall Health
   Medical conditions like diabetes, osteoporosis, and some autoimmune diseases can affect your bone density and healing ability – all of which can potentially impact the success of your implant. If you have any underlying health issues, work closely with your dentist and physician to manage them effectively and formulate a dental care treatment plan for you.

Tips for Making Your Dental Implant Last for Longer

Now that you know what affects your teeth implant’s lifespan, let’s talk about how you can maximize its longevity. Follow these tips to keep your implant in excellent condition for years to come:

• Use Implant-Safe Products

Some dental products are specifically designed for implants. For example, low-abrasive toothpaste and non-alcoholic mouthwash can help protect the implant’s surface and surrounding tissues. Ask your dentist for recommendations.

• Avoid Hard and Sticky Foods

While implants are strong, they’re not indestructible. Avoid chewing on hard foods like nuts, ice, or hard candy, as well as sticky foods like caramel or taffy. These can damage the crown or even loosen the implant over time. Only stick with soft foods moving forward after availing of dental implant procedure for yourself.

• Wear a Mouthguard if You’re Prone to Grinding Your Teeth

Bruxism or teeth grinding can put excessive pressure on your implant, leading to damage or failure. If you grind your teeth at night, ask your dentist about getting a custom-fitted mouthguard to protect your implant and natural teeth.

• Quit Smoking

Smoking is one of the biggest risk factors for implant failure. It impairs healing and increases the likelihood of infection. If you’re a smoker, quitting can significantly improve your implant’s chances of lasting a lifetime.

• Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle Overall

A balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals supports overall oral health. Calcium and vitamin D, in particular, are essential for strong bones, including the jawbone that supports your implant. Regular exercise and stress management also contribute to better health and healing.

What Happens if Your Implant Fails?

Remember: undergoing dental implant surgery doesn’t promise a permanent solution to your oral health needs.

While rare, implant failure can occur. Signs of a failing implant include pain, swelling, loosening of the implant, bone loss, or difficulty chewing. If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your dentist immediately. Early intervention can often save the implant.

If the implant does fail, don’t panic. Your dentist can assess the situation and recommend the necessary steps you need to take, which may include looking into how you underwent the healing process to replacing the implants and/or dental crowns depending on the situation.

Final Words

Dental implants are a game-changer for anyone dealing with missing teeth. They’re durable, functional, and aesthetically pleasing. With proper care, which includes practicing good oral hygiene, making smart lifestyle choices, staying on top of dental appointments, and so on, your implant can last a lifetime, making it a worthwhile investment in your oral health and overall wellbeing.

Remember, your implant’s longevity is largely in your hands—so take care of it, and it’ll take care of you.