Dental implants are a permanent solution to missing teeth and they have a success rate of up to 95%. When they are done by a suitably qualified and experienced dental practitioner they can last for the rest of your lifetime. This is of course, subject to gum health and the quality of the dental crown that is affixed. If you get a consultation at your local dental clinic, it is advisable to ask the dental practitioner what their success rate for dental implant surgery is. In this article, we will answer the question of how long do dental implants last, and when they might need to be replaced.
How Long Do Dental Implants Last?
Titanium and zirconia are typically used in the production of a dental implant. Both materials are well tolerated by the body. They are both strong and lightweight materials and are suitable for the back teeth. The feature that makes dental implants permanent is the fact that they fuse or osseointegrate with your jaw, essentially becoming part of it. This means that you can exert the same degree of bite force when chewing your food as you would with your natural teeth.
The dental crown, which is the last stage of your dental implant procedure is not as durable as the titanium or zirconia screw that is anchored into your jaw during the surgery. It is estimated that 80% of dental crowns will need to be replaced in 15 to 20 years. Read more on how to extend the longevity of implants.
What Are The Factors That Influence The Lifespan Of A Dental Implant?
Dental implants need to be looked after just like your other teeth. Brushing and flossing twice a day can keep your mouth free of gum disease. Visiting your dentist twice a year is also important to make sure your dental implant is in good condition and that your remaining natural teeth are free of decay.
When your natural teeth are weak or you are missing other teeth in your mouth, it can cause too much bite force on your dental implant, compromising its integrity.
Gum disease
If plaque accumulates in your mouth, it can penetrate your gum and lead to infections that cause gum disease. Gum disease causes your soft tissue and connective fibres to deteriorate. Over time, the infection can penetrate the underlying bone, which results in bone loss. If there is insufficient jaw bone beneath your dental implants, they may loosen and fall out.
When the base of the dental implant has plaque build-up, the condition is called peri-implant disease. This can also lead to bone loss. Other conditions such as osteoporosis and problems with bone density can cause the jaw to weaken and not be strong enough to support your dental implants.
A dental crown can be weakened by other factors like the type of foods you eat. Teeth grinding at night also causes pressure on implants. The constant force of your jaws against one another can damage a tooth implant and cause it to loosen.
The Importance Of Working With A Skilled Dental Practitioner
The planning of your tooth implant surgery as well as the skill level of the dental practitioner performing it have a direct impact on the success of your implant. Inexperienced practitioners can make mistakes that could lead to implant failure. Some of the possible side effects that can occur include
- The tooth implant being positioned incorrectly
- The tooth implants are badly designed
- Trauma to the surrounding tissues during the procedure
- Placing a dental crown or abutment before osseointegration has been completed fully can compromise the stability of the implant.
How Long Do Other Dental Restorations Last?
Tooth implants typically outlast other dental restorations by a large margin.
Dentures generally need to be replaced every five to ten years because of the changes that occur to the shape of the gums and jaw bone. They are likely to need relining before this.
Bridgework also needs to be replaced every five to seven years.
Replacing a dental crown is a relatively efficient procedure and the shortest stage of tooth implant treatment. By choosing a high-quality material for your dental crown and working with an experienced dental practitioner, you can expect a longer lifespan from your dental restoration.
The Bottom Line
Because a tooth implant integrates with your jaw and becomes part of it, it is a permanent fixture that can last for decades. A dentist that offers consultation can give you a clear indication of how often you might need to replace the dental crown. You can play a role in extending the lifespan of your implant by taking good care of your teeth and going for regular checkups with your dentist.
To find out more about how long do dental implants last or to book a dental consultation near you, please give us a call: (02) 9158 6211.
Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
References
Are Dental Implants Permanent?
https://www.healthline.com/health/dental-and-oral-health/how-long-do-dental-implants-last
Dental Implant Guide: Costs, Process, Risks & More
https://www.smile.com.au/dental-treatments/implants
