Dental implants are a popular and effective way to replace missing teeth. While they are designed to be a long-lasting solution, they may not necessarily last forever. How long a dental implant lasts can depend on several factors, including how well it is cared for and maintained over time. Southern Arizona Periodontics has been providing the Greater Tucson Area with complex dental procedures to restore tooth integrity and maintain healthy gums for decades.
The Lifespan of Dental Implants
Dental implants are made of titanium, which is a strong and durable material that is also biocompatible to the body. Once an implant is placed into the jawbone and fully integrated, it can serve as a stable and long-lasting support for a replacement tooth or a set of teeth. With proper care, a dental implant can potentially last for decades or even a lifetime.
However, there are some factors that can affect the lifespan of a dental implant.
- Oral hygiene: Good oral hygiene practices, such as brushing and flossing regularly and seeing a dentist for routine checkups and cleanings, are important for maintaining the health of dental implants. If dental implants are not properly cared for, they can become damaged or infected, which can lead to implant failure.
- Lifestyle habits: Habits such as smoking and heavy alcohol consumption can increase the risk of implant failure by interfering with the healing process or causing damage to the implant over time.
- Bone density: Adequate bone density in the jaw is necessary to support the implant. If the bone density is not sufficient, the implant may not integrate properly, and it may become loose or fail.
- Bite force: Excessive biting or clenching can put excessive stress on the implant and the surrounding bone, which can lead to implant failure over time.
In some cases, complications such as infection or implant fracture may require the removal and replacement of the implant.
Maintaining Dental Implants
To ensure the longevity of dental implants, it is important to maintain good oral hygiene practices, avoid harmful habits, and see a dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings. Dental implant patients may also need to follow specific care instructions provided by their dentist to ensure the implant is properly maintained.
While dental implants are designed to be a long-lasting solution for missing teeth, they may not necessarily last forever. The lifespan of a dental implant can depend on proper care, lifestyle habits, bone density, and bite force. By maintaining good oral hygiene practices and following the care instructions that we provide, our patients can rest assured that they are working with a life-long new smile that looks and feel like normal teeth.
