Dental implants are the gold standard in artificial tooth replacement. They look and function just like a real tooth – and give the patient a boost of confidence, too. Dentists have many different procedures and treatments they can offer to help fill in the spot of a missing tooth, but they are not all created equal. There is a reason why dental implants are often at the top of the list. What are they? And, just how long do dental implants last? Let’s talk about it.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants replace one or more missing teeth, both functionally and aesthetically. They are composed of a couple of different parts. The implant itself – usually made of titanium – is surgically implanted into the jaw bone where it fuses with the bone. An abutment is attached to the implant in order to hold the artificial tooth – a dental crown – in place.
Your teeth rely on each other for support. When one is missing, the surrounding teeth can begin to shift. This may lead to some complex dental issues down the road. A dental implant is a reliable way to keep everything right where it is supposed to be.
How Long Do Dental Implants Last?
If placed and healed properly, the implant itself will fuse to the bone. This means that it can last a lifetime – or upwards of 25 years. The dental crown that attaches to the implanted anchor, however, has a lifespan of about 10 to 15 years. With exceptional care, dental crowns are able to last upwards of 20 years.
Because dental implants consist of different parts, you can easily swap out the dental crowns without worry when that time comes. It is worth noting that there are a couple of factors that can impact the longevity of a dental implant, including the location of the implant and just how dense your jaw bone is. Dental implants in the back of the mouth often wear down faster due to all the heavy chewing. And without a strong bone for the implant to fuse, it could begin to weaken over time.
Proper Care for Long-Lasting Dental Implants
If you want to get the most out of your dental implants, you will want to make sure you care for them properly. That means boosting your oral hygiene routine.
- Brush your teeth at least twice per day using a soft toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste
- Floss every single day
- Use a mouthwash daily (ask your dentist for recommendations)
Routine dental care is also vital to the lifespan of your dental implants. You will want to make an appointment with your dentist every 6 months for a professional cleaning and examination. Not only will this help to keep your teeth in great shape, but it will also provide an opportunity for any issues to be addressed before they get worse. Of course, choosing the best dentist to handle your procedure and other dental care plays an important role in the success of your dental implants. Dr. Cusanello of Lexington Prosthodontics is a highly trained dentist with exceptional skills in the placement of dental implants.
