If you have one or more missing teeth, your dentist has likely told you that you should consider getting dental implants. But the treatment is a bit on the pricey side, so you naturally want to know more about it before you commit to anything. In particular, you may be curious about its lifespan. How long do dental implants last? Are they worth your money? Read on below to learn about the remarkable longevity of this procedure.
Dental Implants Can Last a Lifetime
Once dental implants are inserted into the jawbone, they form a strong bond with the surrounding tissue. That bond has the potential to last a lifetime — and so do dental implants! When you calculate their cost per day over the course of 30 or 40 years, it is obvious that they are an excellent monetary value.
The restorations that get attached to dental implants do not last quite as long. They usually endure for 10 – 15 years or so before it becomes necessary to replace them. (In some cases, they last much longer than 15 years.)
What Can Cause Dental Implants to Fail?
Of course, it must be acknowledged that dental implants do not always live up to their potential for lifelong function. Rarely, they fail. A few issues that can lead to implant failure include:
- Infection. When harmful bacteria invade the tissue around an implant, they can eat away at the gums and jawbone, eventually compromising the implant’s base of support.
- Physical trauma. If you take a hard blow to your face, your implant or the tissue around it could suffer significant damage. Long-term pressure, such as that caused by teeth grinding, is also risky for implants.
- Failed osseointegration. In rare cases, dental implants do not properly bond with the surrounding bone.
Helping Your Implants Stand the Test of Time
There is no need to be unduly worried that your dental implants will fail. If you take good care of them, it is highly unlikely that you will run into any serious problems. Here are some tips to help you keep your smile in good shape:
- Prioritize oral hygiene. Twice-daily brushing is vital. You should also floss once a day or use a water flosser.
- Do not smoke. Research indicates that smoking drastically increases the risk of dental implant failure.
- Protect your implants. You should wear a mouthguard during sports. If you grind your teeth, you may also need to wear a nightguard.
- Stay in touch with your dentist. You should attend a checkup and cleaning every six months or so.
Dental implants are a remarkable form of tooth replacement that could serve you well for the rest of your life! Your local dentist or oral surgeon would be pleased to help you further understand this restorative treatment.
Meet the Practice
Piney Point OMS features three board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeons, all of whom have extensive knowledge of dental implants. If you are looking to replace your lost teeth, our team is ready to answer your questions and assess your candidacy for treatment. To learn more about how we may be able to serve you, get in touch at 713-783-5560.