How Long Do Dental Implants Last?

Are you considering dental implants? Dental implants are the highest quality replacement option available. Dental implants can replace anywhere from a single tooth to an entire arch of teeth. 

What Is a Dental Implant? 

A dental implant is an artificial tooth root that is surgically placed in the bone of the jaw. It replaces the natural root of your tooth, providing the same type of support for an artificial tooth. The implant is made of titanium, a biocompatible material that fuses with the bone to form a solid bond. Then a porcelain crown can be attached to the implant to provide a functional, natural looking replacement. 

Dental implants can also provide support for bridges and dentures in cases where multiple or all of the teeth need to be replaced. Implants provide a solid anchor for dental prosthetics, especially dentures, to prevent them from slipping out of place when eating and talking. 

How Long Can I Expect My Dental Implant to Last? 

Once a dental implant has fused to the bone, a process called osseointegration, the dental implant will essentially become a part of the gums and jaw bone. The average lifespan of a dental implant is anywhere from 10-30 years. This means that most likely, depending on your age and how well you take care of it, the implant can last for a very long time. 

Will The Entire Dental Implant Last Forever? 

The term “dental implant” refers more specifically to the root portion of the restoration. The prosthetic is the dental crown, bridge, or denture that is attached to the implant. The root portion of the implant can last forever, but the prosthetic may not. On average, a porcelain crown, bridge, or dentures will last around 10-15 years. With good care, dental prosthetics can often last longer, but you can expect that you may need to replace them at least once in your lifetime. 

What Causes Dental Implant Failure? 

The success rate of dental implants is around 98%. But when they do fail, there is typically a reason that could have been avoided. The following can cause dental implants to fail: 

• Poor dental hygiene. If you don’t take care of your teeth and gums by brushing at least twice a day and flossing once a day, it can lead to gum disease. Gum disease is a bacterial infection of the gums caused by plaque that builds up on teeth and hardens into calculus. It can cause the support structures for the implant to weaken, allowing it to become loose or even fall out. 
• Inaccurate placement. If the implant is placed at the wrong angle or depth it can fail to fuse with the bone or come loose later. Poor placement can also cause damage to the jaw bone itself. 
• Smoking and/or tobacco use. The use of tobacco, either through smoking or chewing, impedes oral health by damaging the soft tissues of your mouth and preventing healing of the gums and bone after implant placement. It can prevent the implant from fusing with the bone as it needs to do in order to last. 
• Lack of proper follow up care. You will be given instructions for follow up care after your dental implant is placed. Failure to follow these instructions could mean your dental implant won’t last. You also need to go back for follow up appointments to monitor your healing progress. 

Where Can I Get Dental Implants?

If you need one or more replacement teeth, dental implants are the highest quality option. Fullerton Oral Surgery provides accurate dental implant placement using the latest technology for optimal success. With good oral hygiene habits and regular professional dental cleanings, your dental implant could last for the rest of your life. 

Call 714-525-1178 or contact us today to learn more and schedule an appointment.