How Long Do Dental Implants Last
Edmonds, WA
 If you're missing teeth or have badly damaged teeth, dental implants are a common solution. They can make your smile look more natural, make you more comfortable, and boost your self-esteem.
If you're wondering as to how long dental implants last, our dentists, Gary J. Jacky, DMD, at Perrinville Family Dentistry can assist you. We will not only outline the timeline for you but will also guide you through the process, ensuring excellent results.
The Lifespan of Dental Implants
The average lifespan of a dental implant is 20–30 years, making them a long-term remedy to tooth loss. But how long they last is completely up to you and how well you care for your teeth.
Dental implants feature a titanium root surgically implanted into the jaw to mimic the tooth's natural root. A ceramic crown is cemented onto the implant to replace the missing tooth. Care for them like you would a normal tooth, with daily brushing, flossing, and regular dental checkups, to maintain their proper functioning and longevity.
What Causes a Dental Implant to Fail?
Although dental implants have a high success rate and can last a lifetime for many patients, they can fail occasionally. Any disturbance to the osseointegration or healing process is a common cause of implant failure.
Possible causes of implant failure can be:
Poor Upkeep and Care
Implants require the same meticulous care as natural teeth. Plaque buildup can result in gum disease, which can cause damage to the jawbone.
Inadequate Bone
Permanent success with endosteal implants depends on their secure placement within the jaw. This can happen if there isn't enough healthy jawbone to properly anchor the implant. The jawbone is carefully inspected before implants are inserted. Imaging technologies can be used to evaluate the integrity of the bone at a prospective implant site.
Smoking
Tobacco users have a decreased success rate with dental implants. Due to its deleterious effects on osseointegration and the healing process, smoking is a potential cause of implant failure.
Tooth Grinding
Tooth grinding and other forms of occlusal trauma can lead to implant fracture, screw loosening, and porcelain crown fracture. This is because the constant micro-movements of the implant caused by the grinding motions can prevent osseointegration from occurring.
Implant Restoration
Failed implants can be removed with just a little bit of numbing medicine. Implant restoration is a possibility. Single dental implant restoration at the same site has been shown to have a 71% success rate in some studies. If bone has been lost in the area previously occupied by the implant, a bone graft may be required before a replacement implant may be placed. It could be a while until you get your new implant.
There are alternatives to replacement if you decide against it or are unable to repair a faulty implant. Dental bridges and dentures are two examples. If severe bone loss has not happened, it can be possible to manage the condition without removing the implant. This entails disinfecting the implant and surrounding area and giving the patient antibiotics.
Schedule Your Appointment Today!
Dental implants restore your smile. You must take proper care of your implants to ensure their longevity. At Perrinville Family Dentistry, our dentist Gary J. Jacky, DMD will complete the process and help you maintain your beautiful smile. |
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Gary J. Jacky, DMD