Do Dental Implants Last Forever? 

When it comes to dental implants, there's a lot of faulty information out there. For example, you may have heard some people say that implants are forever while others claim that they can only last for about ten years. 

So, who's right? 

Here's what you need to know. 

‍How Implants Work 

A lot of the confusion comes from the fact that most people don't know how implants work. 

An implant has three pieces: a metal post, an abutment, and a dental crown. 

The metal post is the part of the implant that gets inserted into the jawbone. This post will then integrate with the jawbone and become the "root" of your artificial tooth. 

Of course, things don't happen as quickly. It usually takes around six months for the implant to fuse with the jawbone. Only after this process (called osseointegration) is successful, the dentist can continue with the two remaining parts - the abutment and the dental crown. 

‍How Long Do Dental Implants Last? 

It depends on the part of the implant we are talking about. 

The metal post, the part that gets inserted into the jawbone, is designed to last forever. And, considering that only 5% to 10% of implants fail, the chances of your implant lasting a lifetime are pretty high. However, you do need to have good oral health to avoid developing peri-implantitis, a condition similar to gum diseases that can affect your implant. 

The dental crown, on the other hand, has a limited lifespan and its longevity depends on the material it's made of. For example, porcelain crowns can last up to 15 years or even longer with proper care. Eventually, you will have to replace the crown as it will wear out. 

‍How to Increase the Longevity of Your Dental Implants 

One of the advantages of implants is that they are low maintenance compared to other restorative options. You need to:

• Have Good Oral Hygiene: Brush at least twice a day and floss daily to remove plaque and food particles around the implant. 
• Go to Regular Dental Checkups: Schedule regular dental checkups and professional cleanings. Your Worcester County dentist can detect and address any potential issues before they become serious.
• Avoid Smoking and Excessive Alcohol Consumption: Both smoking and heavy drinking can negatively affect bone quality and slow down the healing process, which can impact the longevity of your dental implants.
• Wear a Mouthguard: If you grind your teeth at night or play contact sports, consider wearing a mouthguard to protect your implants from damage.
• Maintain a Healthy Diet: Consuming a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals can support overall oral health. Avoid eating hard and sticky foods that can damage the crown of your dental implants.
• Address Any Problems: If you notice any discomfort, loosening, or other issues with your implant, contact your dentist right away. 

‍Want to Learn More? 

Are you interested in dental implants? Want to find out if they are right for you? Dr. Salman Khanani can help you find out the answer! 

Schedule an appointment with Khanani Family Dental and visit us for an initial consultation.