Dental implants are an excellent option for replacing missing teeth. Their popularity is due to their durability and ability to closely mimic natural teeth in function and appearance.
So, how long do dental implants actually last? Dr. Bernstein from Gentle Dental in Newark, New Jersey, explains, “If the implant integrates well, it can last for decades. We have patients with implants that have lasted for 25 years without any problems. Implants can fail if there’s an infection, disease, or poor control of conditions like diabetes, but the success rate is about 98%.”
Get in touch with our team to get your dental implants done and receive professional, reliable care.
How Long Do Dental Implants Last?
Dental implants are designed to provide a long-term solution for tooth replacement. Studies show that these artificial teeth can easily last over 20 years. Research also supports that dental implants have an impressive 98% survival rate.
On average, dental implants can last 20 to 25 years or more, though individual factors such as oral hygiene and health play a significant role. With proper oral hygiene and no uncontrolled medical conditions, they can last even longer.
Why Do Implants Last Long?
A dental implant consists of three parts:
- Implant: A titanium post with screw-like ridges that is placed into the jawbone.
- Abutment: The connector between the implant and the crown.
- Crown: A prosthetic tooth that sits on top of the abutment, providing a natural appearance like real teeth.
The titanium used in the implant is biocompatible and fuses with the jawbone through the osseointegration process. It creates a solid bond between the jawbone and the implant. That’s why dental implants last for a long time.
However, the crown may not last as long as the implant. Without proper care, crowns can wear down or get damaged, requiring earlier replacement.
What Affects the Lifespan of Dental Implants?
Several factors can influence how long dental implants last, including age, implant size, bone quality, and more.
Dentist’s Expertise
A proficient dentist can find the best placement for your implant. They will also check for any existing dental issues.
Bone Density
Adequate bone density increases the success rate and longevity of dental implants. Patients with high bone density, such as Type I bone, have a dental implant success rate of approximately 97.6%. Dental implants may last over 25 years in patients with this type of bone density.
Uncontrolled Disease
Certain conditions like poorly controlled diabetes or cancer treatments may affect implant longevity. However, with proper management, many patients still experience long-term success with their implants.
Lifestyle and Oral Hygiene
After having dental implants, patients should be careful about their food and oral hygiene. Proper brushing, flossing, and avoiding smoking can extend the life of your implants.
Maintenance
While dental implants do not decay, they can weaken or fail if surrounding tissues become compromised. Patients should go through routine checkups to increase the survival rate and the lifespan of dental implants.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which type of dental implants last the longest?
Titanium implants are highly durable and fuse with the jawbone through a process called osseointegration. Ceramic crowns are a great match for these implants, making them a long-lasting treatment.
Q: Do dental implants expire?
Dental implants can expire if they’re not well taken care of. The crown, which is subject to wear and tear, typically requires replacement more frequently than the implant itself. The implant itself generally won’t expire unless there’s an issue with the jawbone.
Q: What should I do if my dental implant has been in place for 25 years?
If your dental implant has lasted 25 years, it’s a great time to check in with your dentist. A crown replacement could help extend the life of your implant even further.
Get Premium, Long-Lasting Dental Implants at Gentle Dental of NJ!
The quality of both the dental implant and the installation process plays a key role in how well the implant integrates with the jawbone and functions alongside natural teeth.
At Gentle Dental, our experienced dentists specialize in long-lasting tooth replacement options. With our careful installation of high-quality dental implants, we help extend the life of your implants.
Call Gentle Dental in Newark, New Jersey, at 973-817-8888 to schedule an appointment and restore your smile with beautiful, durable dental implants.
Disclaimer This article is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Consult your physician for any medical concerns or before starting any treatment. Do not ignore professional medical advice due to the information read here. The authors are not responsible for any outcomes from the use of this information.
