Are you missing teeth? You aren’t alone. So are 178 million Americans. Fortunately, there are several tooth replacement options to choose from. One preferred option by patients and dentists alike is dental implants because of their many benefits. But how long do dental implants last? Continue reading to learn more about their lifespan and how you can extend it.
How Long Do Dental Implants Last?
Implants are considered a permanent tooth replacement option, but this doesn’t necessarily mean that they will last forever. However, they are made to be durable and typically have a lifespan of 25 years or more with proper care. This depends on several different factors:
- Location in mouth
- Gum health
- Maintenance
- Overall health
How Do You Maximize the Lifespan of Dental Implants?
Fortunately, most of the factors that contribute to the health of your implants are in your control. Here are a few things that you can do to maximize dental implant lifespan:
- Maintain excellent oral hygiene: Your dental implants need to be brushed and flossed every single day, just like your natural teeth. While the crown that is attached to your implant is not susceptible to decay, the implant itself relies on healthy gum tissue to be successful. If you develop periodontal disease, you are much more likely to experience dental implant failure.
- Proper use: Dental implants are made to chew your food, keep your jawbone strong, hold in saliva, and help you smile. Do not use them to open bottles, rip through packaging, crunch on ice cubes, or bite your nails. When you use your implants as tools, you could damage them.
- Choose a dentist who is experienced: When selecting a dentist for your dental implant placement surgery, you want to make sure they have a lot of experience in this regard. This goes for any surgery or procedure you opt for. Check into the types of continuing education they have completed. It is also a good idea to check out patient reviews.
- See your dentist regularly: Regular cleanings and checkups are necessary to prevent oral health problems. When problems occur with your implant, it is important your dentist catches them right away so they can be resolved.
So, how long do dental implants last? Their long life is one of their many benefits. However, it is important they are well taken care of, or else they will be compromised. With proper maintenance, you may never have to worry about missing teeth again!
About the Practice
At Turning Leaf Dental, we’re dedicated to creating a boutique experience that reimagines what a typical dental experience is like. We focus on comfort, quality, and convenience, so our patients can take care of their smiles without having to worry about the stress of walking into a clinical, numbers-driven dental office. If you are interested in dental implants, you can count on our skilled periodontist to handle all placement and restoration at our office location, plus we can replace one tooth or all of them depending on your needs. Schedule a consultation on our website or by calling (617) 536-5182.