How Long Do Dental Implants Last?

Dental implants are stable structures that can replace missing teeth. They consist of durable, biocompatible materials. Knowing why these restorations last for a long time can motivate you to invest in your dental health. Here are the details on how long dental implants can serve you.

Permanent dental restorations

Dental implants fuse with the jawbone and gum tissue. The osseointegration makes these restorations permanent. This process happens for months. Once it finishes, the solid foundation will be ready for the abutment and dental crown.

In some cases, the crown may need replacement. It tends to wear down because of biting and chewing. The patient can replace the caps every 15-20 years. The implants stay in the mouth for a lifetime with proper care and maintenance.

When it comes to MDIs (mini dental implants)

MDIs are much narrower than other types of dental implants. The diameter is about the same as a toothpick’s. The dentist can place these implants in areas where the jawbone is thinner. Installing them is not as intrusive as installing traditional implants.

MDIs are compatible with removable overdentures. They can also help restore small teeth. These small implants are permanent restorations as well. A 2019 study shows that both mini and traditional dental implants last for decades with proper maintenance.

Factors that influence the longevity of dental implants

As mentioned earlier, these dental replacements can last for decades. But they can still fail because of many factors. These considerations tend to disrupt the healing or fusion of the implants and the jawbone. Below are some of them:

• Smoking can reduce the success of dental implants. Studies show that smoking impairs blood circulation and oxygenation. This can slow down the implant site’s healing. Smoking can also contribute to the development of gum disease.
• Insufficient maintenance and care can lead to more plaque and tartar. It can also result in gum disease, which can damage one’s jawbone and gum tissue. The peri-implant disease can spring up as well. The patient can experience implant failure if early peri-implant disease does not receive treatment. Good oral hygiene involves daily flossing and brushing at least two times a day for two minutes. Reducing one’s sugar intake can help improve one’s oral health.
• Bruxism or teeth grinding can result in implant fracture. It can also fracture or loosen the dental implants.
• Insufficient bone mass can also lead to jawbone failure. That is why dentists recommend a sinus lift or bone grafting to thicken the jawbone enough for dental implants.
• Aging can also lead to implant failure. Older adults tend to have many ailments that need treatment.
• Medical conditions can contribute to implant failure. Bleeding issues, diabetes, cardiovascular, and other diseases can slow down a person’s ability to heal.

Treating failed dental implants

The dentist will use local anesthesia to remove the failed implant. Placing a bone graft may help the jawbone section regenerate until the next implant is ready. Resorting to traditional dentures and bridges is another option for replacing missing teeth. The dentist will clean the area and disinfect the titanium rod. The patient must also finish a course of antibiotics to help remove the infection and dry the lesions.