Getting dental implants can set you up for a lifetime of benefits. No teeth replacement option is known to last as long as this one. However, a lot of factors can influence their durability. So, how long do dental implants last?
How Long Do Dental Implants Last?
Technically, a dental implant is just the post that your specialist inserts into the gum. This post fuses to your jaw bone, ensuring a stable fit. However, when people ask how long dental implants last, they typically mean the entire restoration.
How Long Does the Dental Implant Itself Last?
Dental implants are made from medical-grade titanium. This metal is known for its exceptional strength while remaining less dense than other metals. This makes it ideal for medical applications.
Additionally, titanium is a bio-inert metal. This means it should not cause interactions with any elements within the body. The first benefit of this is minimizing the risk of allergic reactions or immune responses. But it also means the body will not break the metal down. That feature in turn allows an implant to last for years to decades.
In general, patients can expect 25+ years from a dental implant. You will want to ensure your product comes from a certified dental lab. It just so happens that is the type we work with.
How Long Does a Dental Implant Crown Last?
The crown is the part that sits above the gum line. In short, it is the “tooth” part of your tooth replacement. Since it will do the work of chewing, it can eventually show signs of wear.
Still, it takes about 10 to 15 years before a well-made crown needs replacing. In some cases, your crown could even last beyond this point.
The durability will also depend on the crown’s material. Most patients choose porcelain for their crowns. This material provides an optimal balance between durability and aesthetics.
How Long Does the Abutment Last?
The abutment connects the crown to the implant. Think of it like the joint between the two parts. The good news is that this joint can withstand the years. Most patients will not need to replace their abutment, even if they need to replace the crown.
Usually, the only reason a patient would need to replace an abutment would be damage. Traumatic injury to the mouth could damage an abutment. Even then, the material can resist most common injuries.
How Does Implant Replacement Work?
If you only need to replace the crown, the process is simple. First, your specialist will remove the old crown.This may involve dissolving the binding agent or unscrewing the crown from the abutment.
We have a new crown custom-made from you based on new impressions. We always take new impressions because your mouth can change over time. Teeth may shift, requiring slight differences in your new crown. We then place the new crown, and your smile goes back to 100%.
Replacing the implant itself requires a more in-depth approach. In most cases, an implant needs replacing only if you received an injury or have some complication. We would need to surgically remove the old post. If there is other damage or issues, those would also need addressing.
The new post is then inserted into the gums. You made need to take extra steps during recovery to reduce the risk of infection or complications.
How Can I Make My Dental Implants Last Longer?
- Proper Care: Patients will need to care for their new tooth as though it were one of their natural ones. The crown is made from durable materials, but it still can wear down over time. Maintain good oral hygiene and avoid high-risk activities to keep your new tooth in good shape.
- Treat Conditions: Patients with bruxism will need to address the condition. Otherwise, teeth grinding can wear down the crown (and your natural teeth). Solutions include wearing a mouthguard and treating the underlying cause of the grinding.
- Regular Dental Visits: Routine dental visits keep your oral health in good shape. Additionally, they allow your dentist to spot any issues with your implants. Catching these early can allow for solutions before the problem worsens.
Post-procedure Instructions: Following your post-procedure care instructions helps the implant heal properly. Improper healing might lead to needing another procedure.
Work with a Top-Rated Implants Specialist
Dental implants can be an investment in a lifetime of a restored smile. Work with the best periodontist available for implants that keep your smile at its peak.
