How Long Do Dental Implants Last?

Dental implants are one of the best forms of tooth replacement. They function much like a real tooth - and look the part, as well. But before making the investment, most patients want to know just how long they can expect their dental implant to last. 

Here’s what you need to know. 

How Long Do Dental Implants Last?

Dental implants come in different pieces - and they do not all have the same lifespan. You have the implant itself that is inserted and left to fuse with the jaw bone. Then you have the abutment that attaches to the implant so that it can hold the dental crown in place. 

So, how long do dental implants last? 

The implant itself is meant to last a lifetime - or upwards of 25 years. Remember, it is fused with the bone so it is held in place quite well. The dental crown, however, usually lasts between 10 to 15 years before it needs to be replaced. Though with the right care, dental crowns have been known to last much, much longer. 

Factors That Contribute to Dental Implant Longevity

There are many different factors that can play a role in how long your dental implants will or will not last. And others that may cause it to fail quickly. These include: 

• Poor bone density. Because dental implants rely on a healthy jaw bone to anchor the tooth, good bone density is essential. Without it, your dentist may suggest having a bone graft before the implant procedure - or else the outcome may not be so good. 
• Poor oral hygiene. Dental implants and the mouth as a whole require proper care. Without it, bacteria can thrive and wreak havoc on the gums, teeth, and bones. This could be detrimental to the implant. 
• Poorly managed biting forces. A poorly managed bite is quite common in contributing to losing an implant. Natural teeth are able to deal with an uneven bite in ways that dental implants simply can’t. 
• Poorly-skilled dentist. Investing in dental implants from a dentist that doesn’t have the experience can cause your implant to fail. It can even cause damage to the surrounding area. 

Find an experienced dentist that will take the time to make sure you are a good candidate for this treatment surgery so that you have the greatest success in long-lasting dental implants. 

Extend the Life of Your Dental Implants

You can work to extend the life of your dental implants by being proactive with the following: 

• Brush your teeth at least twice a day
• Floss thoroughly - every day
• Invest in a water flosser to use around implants
• Eat a healthy diet low in sugar
• Avoid crunchy, hard foods as much as possible
• Stop smoking, vaping, or chewing tobacco

Most importantly, ensure you visit your dentist every 6 months for a professional cleaning and dental exam. 

Dental Implants at Schaus Dental Studio

Since the successful placement of a dental implant depends significantly on the skill of your dentist, you want to find someone with the precision and experience to handle the task. And that’s what you get from Dr. Schaus. 

Find out if you are a candidate for dental implants. Contact us at 763-525-0306. Or, request an appointment online.