15 August 2023
How long do dental implants last?
Dental implant treatment has become an increasingly popular solution over recent decades, especially when it comes to those who have suffered from missing teeth and the side effects that accompany them for long periods of time due to other options being unsuitable. They are widely hailed as a perfect, permanent solution – but is this really the case? In this article, we take a closer look at how long dental implants last.
When are dental implants recommended?
There is no one reason why dental implants are recommended as the best approach to replacing missing teeth. Generally speaking, they are ideal where the remaining teeth are in good shape and offer an alternative to methods such as crowns and bridges. These can sometimes have a negative impact on the surrounding teeth and may not always be ideal.
Implants are also an important option to consider when bone loss is an issue. This occurs when a tooth is missing for a prolonged period of time. Without the natural stimulation of the tooth, the bone in the jaw around the gap begins to sink away. This can result in an unstable jaw which makes you much more vulnerable to further tooth loss, and can also cause the appearance of premature aging. However, the most common reason by far that dental implants are chosen is that they are considered a permanent replacement for the missing teeth – and also the most natural looking alternative.
So what is a dental implant?
It is important to understand that a dental implant is a lot more than simply an artificial replacement tooth. A dental implant consists of three key components – the implant itself, the abutment and the crown. Let’s take a closer look at each part.
The implant is essentially a replacement for the root of the missing tooth and provides an incredibly strong base upon which the replacement tooth can be mounted. Implants are made from titanium because it is biocompatible – meaning it is able to fuse with the bone around it and become an integral part of the jaw.
The abutment is essentially a connector and links the implant and the crown together.
The crown is the permanent, replacement tooth that is mounted on the implant (and the only visible part).
These three components work together to provide a strong and incredibly long lasting replacement for the missing tooth or teeth.
How long do dental implants last?
When you have the highest quality dental implants fitted by an experienced dentist, you can reasonably expect your implants to last for years to come – in many cases a lifetime.
One important factor which will determine how long your dental implants last is the bone they are fitted to. It is essential that the jawbone where the implant is fitted is strong and healthy. For this reason, your dentist will conduct a thorough examination as part of the planning process, looking for signs of gum disease which can weaken the jaw, as well as taking x-rays if required. Additional dental work may be necessary to address other issues prior to beginning your implant treatment, and in some cases it may be necessary to conduct a bone graft, which is a technique that is used where the existing bone is not suitable or insufficient.
However, the ultimate lifespan of your dental implants depends on how well you look after them. Just like your natural teeth, the better you care for them, the longer they will last. Although there is no guarantee, provided you maintain a good oral hygiene regime and ensure that your teeth and gums stay healthy, you can expect them to last for as long as your other teeth. Your dental team will advise you on the best way to care for your implants – and never be afraid to ask for advice.
If you are suffering from missing teeth and would like to discuss dental implant treatment with an expert, call the award winning team at here at Ibbott&Co Dental Practice today on 01892 782300 or click here to see other ways you can contact us.
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