You may have overheard about dental implants being the gold standard when it comes to teeth replacement. They are the best and go-to permanent tooth replacement option that can almost truly replicate your natural teeth aesthetically and functionally as well. If you are fascinated about undergoing this restorative implant procedure, it is understandable that you may ask ‘how long do dental implants last?’ Let us find the answer to this question and learn a lot more about dental implants.
A Dental Implant’s Components
Before we can answer that intriguing question, let us know the parts of the implants to have an idea of how sturdy your implants will be. The dental implant surgically connected to your jawbone is made of a screw-like titanium post. It is rooted permanently to your jaws where your natural teeth are also attached. It gives you the same foundation that you expect with your healthy teeth. An abutment or connector attaches the crown or the artificial tooth to the implant post. The material used to make the crown varies from composite resin, metal (gold usually), or porcelain. You can benefit from a dentist that offers free consultation and discuss all your questions during your appointment.
The estimated durability
If maintained properly, dental implants can have a lifespan of up to 20 years! Proper care of your dental implants means that you do adequate brushing and flossing, avoid hard and sticky foods, wear protective headgear during active sports, and visit the dentist for regular dental consultations at least twice a year or every six months. However, the crown attached to your implant may be replaced after 10-15 years because depending on your lifestyle and dental hygiene, like your natural teeth, there are reports of dental crowns staining or encountering normal wear-and-tear.
Other elements affecting their lifespan
Aside from your proper dental hygiene as the number one factor, there are also some aspects that can affect your dental implants’ durability. You can discuss these with a dentist that offers a free consultation before your surgery.
- Your dental implant location. The location of your dental implant in your mouth affects its usage. Posterior dental implants for your molars, for example, receive more tension or pressure from chewing your food, which can cause them to wear more quickly than anterior dental implants.
- Your gum or bone condition. If you develop gum disease or your bone starts to weaken after your dental implant placement, the integrity of the implant, as well as the connection to the bone, gets affected as well.
- Your overall health condition. There are instances where patients with dental implants who suffer from diabetes or cancer report that their dental implants failed prematurely.
Now that you know the answer to how long do dental implants last, it may be easier for you to decide if this restorative dental procedure is appropriate for you. Book a free consultation at your local dental clinic to speak to an expert dentist. Call us on (02) 9158 6326 – Sydney or (02) 4058 2836 – Gosford.
