If you’re considering dental implants to replace some of your missing teeth, you’re not alone. These small titanium marvels have revolutionized the way patients restore their smiles in a big way. However, they can be an investment both financially and with time. So, many patients wonder how long they are expected to last. Read on to learn about the factors that contribute to the longevity of dental implants.
How Do Dental Implants Work?
Before delving into longevity, it’s important to understand what dental implants are and how they work. They are titanium posts surgically implanted into the jawbone that act as artificial tooth roots for various restorations. Once placed, they fuse with the surrounding bone through a process called osseointegration. This provides an anchor point for replacements like crowns, bridges, or dentures.
How Long Do Dental Implants Typically Last?
While individual patient experiences may vary, dental implants are designed to be a long-term solution for tooth replacement. Most studies show they have a high rate of success, sometimes exceeding 95 percent. If you take care of them, they can last for decades, or even the rest of your life!
What Factors Affect Dental Implant Longevity?
Several factors can affect the lifespan of dental implants:
- Oral Hygiene: Good oral hygiene is crucial for maintaining the health of dental implants. Brushing, flossing, and regular dental checkups help prevent gum disease and implant-related complications that can cause them to fail.
- Bone Density and Quality: The success of your dental implant placement depends, in part, on the density and quality of your jawbone. If you have the support necessary for jawbone fusion to happen, your implant fixtures should solidify, ensuring success.
- Overall Health: Systemic conditions like unmanaged diabetes or autoimmune diseases can affect your body’s ability to heal and may compromise the results. This is why it’s important to tell your dentist about any medical issues during your consultation.
- Smoking and Excessive Alcohol: Tobacco use and drinking excessive alcohol can both interfere with the healing process and increase the risk of implant failure. Likewise, alcohol consumption can weaken your immune system, inviting oral infection. Moderating or stopping both activities can greatly increase the lifetime of your implants.
Dental implants offer a reliable and long-lasting solution for replacing missing teeth. By understanding the factors that affect their longevity, you can make lifestyle adjustments to protect your investment. With proper care and a great dentist to guide you, you can enjoy the benefits of dental implants for many years yet!
About the Author
Are you thinking about getting dental implants in Los Angeles? Dr. Les Latner has the knowledge and skill to help you with this complex yet rewarding treatment. He received his dental doctorate from the Washington University School of Dental Medicine in St. Louis. Since then, he has dedicated himself to the mastery of dentistry to better help his patients and meet their needs. Call (310) 477-1081 to schedule a dental implant consultation at Westside Dental Associates – Les Latner, DDS, or visit the website to learn more.