How Long Do Dental Implants Last (And how you can take care of them)

Do you want to know how long dental implants last? And how you can take care of them? If yes, then you’ve come to the right place.

There can be many different reasons why you might consider getting dental implants. Missing teeth due to gum disease, cavities and accident are some of the reasons why teeth are replaced. You might have heard about dentures but they are not the only option and there is something even better than them available for you. These are dental implants.

If you have questions regarding its suitability for you, how long they last and how you can take care of them then you’re at the right place. We will discuss:

What are dental implants?

Are they the best option for you?

Dental implants are used to replace missing tooth or teeth. Usually, they include a titanium implant that is placed into the jawbone by the dentist. Gradually, the implant fuses with the surrounding bone, making it firm and strong. A crown and an abutment are placed on top of the implant, designed to look like a natural tooth.

You’re a good candidate for a dental implant if you have a definite amount of bone available in your jaw. Majority of the people who get dental implants have a successful result and are satisfied with it.

Your dentist will look into your situation and suggest the best option for you. Dental implants are available as:

Many dentists agree that dental implants are a better option than traditional dentures because implants give back the ability to chew, speak and smile again. It can positively affect your quality of life. Some other advantages of dental implants include:

They look like natural teeth. Implants are placed into the structure of your jaw where they fuse with the bone and become strong, similar to your natural teeth. They bring back the ability to chew and eat just like your natural teeth. Your implants will be custom made so they are the same color as the rest of your teeth.
They prevent bone loss in your jaw. One major problem of missing teeth is that when it is left unfilled, the gap can start causing bone loss. Due to an absence of root or tooth that functions normally, the bone begins to deteriorate and retreats back.
They keep your teeth stable. Gaps between your teeth cause the adjacent teeth to lean in and they may become crooked. This makes chewing and speaking normally even harder. It can also affect your smile. Dental implants can help in dealing with this.
They are long lasting. In addition to being stable, dental implants are also designed to last a very long duration.
They give your back your confidence. Dental implants give you the ability to smile, speak and eat with confidence, without having to worry about your teeth.

Now that you’re familiar with the advantages of dental implants, lets move on to how long they can last and how to take care of them.

How long dental implants last?

What to expect?

If you’re curious about how long dental implants last, the simple answer is, for quite a long time. Dental implants are designed to look and function like your normal teeth. Implants are considered the most successful and long lasting option for teeth replacement because they are anchored into your bone. However, it can depend from person to person. The longevity of the implant is determined by how they are taken care of.

The titanium screw that goes into the bone can be expected to last for a lifetime whereas the crown or abutments may have to be replaced after 10-15 years due to wear and tear. However, it can vary depending on how you take care of them. Dental implants are a permanent solution, they can last a long time if you take care of them like your natural teeth.

How do you care for dental implants?

What is the best way for you to take care of your dental implants?

To get the most out of your dental implants, it is important to take proper care of them. You will need to care of them just like your natural teeth, to prevent build-up of plaque and bacteria, which can lead to different problems and shorten the life of your implants. To keep your implants healthy you can:

Make sure to brush and clean your teeth twice per day, in the morning and at night. A soft bristled toothbrush should be used.
Brush in, on and around the crown to make sure that all the spaces are cleaned properly and plaque is prevented.
A less abrasive toothbrush can be used on the recommendation of your dentist.
Unwaxed or a certain type of floss can be used on the recommendation of your dentist.
You can use an oral irrigator.
You should visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings.

Your dentist can tell you more about taking care of your dental implants. Dental implants are a permanent solution to missing teeth, they can last a long time with proper care and maintenance. Consult your dentist if you’re considering dental implants as a permanent solution to your missing teeth.