500,000 people every year are choosing the most advanced solution to treat tooth loss. A dental implant is unlike any other treatment because it replicates both the root and crown. Not only does this provide the next best thing to your real tooth, but dental implants are proven to last for decades, unlike crowns, bridges, partials, and dentures. Since they never need replacing, they can be the most cost-effective option. Although many factors affect the lifespan of dental implants, here’s how long you can expect your new smile to last.
Life Expectancy of Dental Implants
A dental implant has over a 95% success rate and is proven to last for 30 years or longer, but many things will affect how long they last, including:
Location
The back teeth undergo more pressure than those in the front from chewing. As a result, dental implants used to replace molars can have a slightly shorter life expectancy than front teeth. You can avoid extra wear and tear by limiting how often you have chewy foods, like tough meats. If you can resist a juicy steak, cut it into small pieces to make it easier to chew.
Materials
Everyone enjoys saving money, but choosing discounted products can affect the duration of your results. Although they are affordable, they may be of low quality. It’s better to invest in high-quality materials that are designed to withstand the test of time.
Bone Health
The overall success of dental implants relies on your jawbone integrating with the posts through a process called osseointegration. It’s not uncommon for people interested in dental implants to have experienced bone loss from infections or missing teeth. A bone grafting procedure can ensure your jaw is strong and healthy to support your new smile.
Oral Hygiene
The biggest threat to the long-term success of dental implants is a preventable infection called peri-implantitis. It’s caused by bacteria found in plaque and tartar. You can safeguard your smile from an infection with a good oral hygiene routine at home. Besides brushing, flossing, and using a daily mouthwash, visit your dentist every 6 months for a cleaning and checkup.
Lifestyle Habits
Your lifestyle habits will also affect your dental implant’s lifespan. Smoking and drinking a lot of alcohol can increase your risk of failure. Poor oral habits can also put you at risk, like chewing on your fingernails or using your teeth to loosen bottle caps. Breaking any bad habits will ensure you will get the most from your investment.
If you’ve lost a tooth or two over the years, don’t settle for anything less than the best. Invest in a solution that’s proven to last for a lifetime with dental implants.
Dr. Rodger Song
Dr. Song achieved his dental degree at the Baylor College of Dentistry and regularly completes continuing education in many specialties, like advanced oral surgery. He is a member of various professional organizations, including the International Congress of Oral Implantologists. If you’re ready to replace your lost teeth, contact our office today to request a consultation.