Lifetime Tooth Replacements: How Long Do Dental Implants Last?

By Author: Shane Smith
Total Articles: 55
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If you’ve heard of dental implants, you’ll already know they work well. It’s to the point that these metal posts are the gold standard of tooth replacement! Even so, you may not grasp how long these restorations tend to last. It’d be good to learn implant lifespan before you commit to treatment. Luckily for you, it isn’t hard to find the proper facts. Here’s a primer on how long dental implants last, why they last so long, and how to help them work longer.

Just How Long Do Dental Implants Last?
The truth is that dental implants don’t last forever; they have limited lifespans. Still, they can (and often do) work for many years at a time.

Even the average dental implant lasts about 15-20 years – a longer period than dentures or dental bridges (i.e., 5-7 years). Better yet, proper care can help an implant reach an even greater lifespan. Research shows that a well-maintained one can work for 30 years or more.

As you’d expect, this extended lifespan is partly why dental implants remain popular. It means that patients don’t need as much follow-up care as they would for dentures or bridges. ...
... Instead, they can practically count on the metal posts to last a lifetime.

Why Do They Last So Long?
Now that you know dental implants are long-lasting, you may wonder why that’s the case. Well, it largely comes down to materials and placement methods.

You see, dental implants (unlike dentures or dental bridges) are set in your jaw. Their titanium makeup causes them to fuse with your jaw, becoming permanent parts of it. This result ensures your new teeth are stable, secure, and durable. Plus, the posts stimulate your jawbone and keep it from eroding; that keeps you from needing later implant adjustments.

How Can You Make Them Last Longer?
To get the most out of your dental implants, you should make them last as long as possible. The good news is that the right tips and tricks can help you do so. In particular, try the following:

• Clean Your Smile at Home – Dental implants don’t get cavities, but they do depend on a healthy mouth. It follows that you should brush your teeth twice daily and floss between them once daily. That way, you’ll reduce your risk of oral issues that cause implant failure.
• Get Regular Dental Checkups – By seeing a dentist every six months, you can get oral issues treated before they threaten your dental implants.
• Avoid Harmful Oral Habits – The truth is that bad oral habits can cause early dental implant failure. Rather notable ones include smoking tobacco, using teeth as tools, and biting hard objects.

Dental implants can last a long time, so don’t neglect them. Consult your dental provider to keep the posts working for many more years!