What Is the Lifespan of Dental Implants?

Are you looking for a tooth replacement option? With modern dental technology, you have several different ones to choose from and many different pros and cons to weigh out. Dental implants have become popular over the years because of their many benefits. But how long do dental implants last? Continue reading to learn more from your dentist about the dental implant lifespan and how to properly maintain them in order to have them last as long as possible.

How Long Do Dental Implants Last?

When they are properly maintained, your dental implants could last a lifetime. However, this depends on a variety of different factors, including how you care for them, how often you receive checkups, and the location in the mouth. For instance, implants that are placed in the back of the mouth don’t tend to last as long because they receive more strain from regular chewing. However, the crown that is placed on the implant typically lasts between 10 to 15 years before needing to be replaced due to wear and tear.

How Do You Properly Maintain Dental Implants?

As previously stated, dental implants can last a lifetime with proper maintenance, but what does that mean? Here are some steps that you should be taking in order to prolong the life of your dental implants:

• Avoid Smoking: Nicotine buildup from smoking negatively influences the blood supply to your gums. This increases your chances of having a dental implant failure and is often a huge contributing factor when an implant isn’t successful.

• Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Even though your replacement tooth isn’t susceptible to decay, the tissue around them is more likely to develop periodontal disease than the gum tissue around your natural teeth. Regular brushing and flossing is a must in order to keep your implants in good shape.

• Use Caution: You won’t have any food restrictions once your implants have finished healing, but you should still be especially careful when consuming things that are particularly hard or sticky. Do not use your teeth as tools for opening or cutting things because you could damage your implant.

• Visit Your Dentist: Regular dental checkups every six months are crucial for optimal oral health, especially if you have dental implants. Your dentist will check to make sure that your implants are in good shape.

Dental implants are a worthy investment when you take proper care of them. With the help of this tooth replacement option, you will be able to reap the benefits for many years to come.

About the Author

Dr. Matt VanderMolen is a well experienced dentist who has been practicing in the Springfield and Central Illinois area for over 30 years. He earned his DDS degree from the University of Illinois before being selected for the Navy’s prestigious postgraduate program in Advanced Dentistry at Bethesda Naval Hospital, where he graduated first in his class. He is a member of numerous organizations, including the International Congress of Oral Implantologists, and a Master of the American Dental Implant Association. For more information on dental implants or to schedule a consultation, visit his website or call (217) 546-3333.