Restorative Dentistry |3 min read

How Long Do Dental Implants Last?

Dentist holding a dental model and discussing the procedure with a patientAre you considering dental implants or already have them?

Dental implants are popular solutions for tooth loss.

Have you ever wondered how long they last and what factors can affect their lifespan?

Generally speaking, dental implants are designed as a permanent solution to tooth loss and may last up to 25 years.

However, the average life span is more than likely between 10 and 20 years.

It is also possible for dental implants to fail in a shorter period for different reasons.

So let’s explore:

The Average lifespan

Each implant has three components, so the life span is tricky to pin down.

This is because each component is made from different materials and has a different role. Another factor, which we’ll cover later, is implant placement.

The implant, or post, lasts the longest as it is inserted within the jawbone. Next comes the abutment. The last component is what you would recognize as the crown. The crown is the component with the most pressure from constant exposure to food and drink.

What can affect their lifespan?

As we’ve already discovered, the lifespan of dental implants can be between 10 and 20 years if properly maintained and cared for. As with any dental treatment, different factors can reduce how long a dental implant may last.

  • Oral Health – How you take care of your teeth and mouth in general.
  • Lifestyle choices – Your choices of food and drink as well as smoking.
  • Injury or damage – Sports injuries or simply grinding your teeth.
  • Medical conditions – Gum disease – Sleep disorders – Diabetes or Prediabetes.
  • Which teeth are replaced – Different teeth have specific roles, such as chewing.

One or more of these elements can affect how long dental implants last and can also impact your overall oral health.

Don’t let tooth loss affect your confidence and quality of life. Contact us now to learn more about dental implant options.

How to prolong the life of your dental implants

How long your dental implants last depends on how well you look after your teeth and your overall oral health.

Dental implants can be cared for in the same way as your natural teeth. Brushing your teeth twice daily and flossing will help keep your gums and teeth healthy.

Just because your teeth are artificial doesn’t mean you shouldn’t attend regular dental check-ups. Your mouth requires regular checkups to prevent additional damage to any natural teeth and your gums.

Even if you maintain high levels of oral hygiene, other factors can cause problems for your oral health.

The habit of smoking can affect recovery and the longer-term health of your implants, as well as your natural teeth and general health.

Alcohol can also affect any treatment recovery as it thins the blood. You should wait at least 72 hours after a procedure to consume alcohol.

Avoid hard or sticky foods immediately after a procedure. These can cause damage to newly placed implants and natural teeth.

Final word

In this article, we have explored the average lifespan of dental implants, factors that can impact their durability, and tips to prolong their lifespan.

We discovered that issues such as oral health, lifestyle choices, and injuries could impact their lifespan.

It’s crucial to maintain good oral hygiene, attend regular check-ups, and avoid habits such as smoking and consuming alcohol immediately after a procedure.

By following these tips and taking care of your dental implants, you can enjoy a healthy and beautiful smile for many years.

Take the first step towards a healthier and more beautiful smile by booking your dental implant appointment with us today.

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Email us at info@midtowndentalexcellence.com

Midtown Dental Excellence is proud to offer professional and caring dentistry for people in Manhattan, MidTown East, and Upper East Side New York, NY.