How Long Do Dental Implants Last

Did you know that more than 36 million Americans don’t have teeth, and 120 million are missing at least one? Whether you’re in Poway or somewhere else, these numbers are only going to grow in the next 20 years. As the demand for tooth replacement solutions increases, dental implants have emerged as a popular choice.

But the question remains: how long do dental implants actually last? To answer this, we need to explore the materials used and other factors that influence dental implant’s longevity, as well as the steps you can take to ensure they last as long as possible. 

What is the average dental implant lifespan?

Will dental implants truly last a lifetime?  Are they worth the investment? These are common concerns for many patients. But here’s the good news! As the standard procedure for replacing missing teeth, implants provide a reliable solution that can indeed last for life. 

Worried about what happens to dental implants after 20 years? Rest assured that with proper care, they can last much longer. In fact, a 30-year study revealed that they can stand the test of time, with not a single implant failing over the entire study period. This means the survival rate was an impressive 100%.

What are the factors affecting dental implant longevity? 

You might be asking yourself, are implants truly permanent? While they boast a 95% success rate, several factors can influence their long-term effectiveness. Here are some of the key ones:

The level of expertise

Choosing the right dentist is key to a successful dental implant procedure. A specialist with long-standing expertise will strategically place the implant and thoroughly assess your oral health before beginning the procedure.

Moreover, recent breakthroughs in digital dentistry and surgical technology have improved the accuracy, reliability, and implant customization, ensuring they meet the unique requirements of every patient. The initial diagnostic process should include:

• A thorough examination of your dental health
• A comprehensive review of your medical and dental history
• Imaging, including a 2D panoramic X-ray, CT scan, and facial scan
• An assessment of any medications you’re currently taking
• A discussion of your pain management options
• A detailed explanation of the stages of your oral surgery
• Information about the recovery process and expected timeline.

Materials used

When choosing the right material for your teeth, it’s important to remember that not all are created equal. These are the ones you can count on:

Titanium

Implants made from this highly biocompatible material are less likely to trigger an inflammatory response. Their incredible strength and durability make them resistant to damage, while the translucent quality of Zirconia crowns attached to these implants ensures a seamless blend with your natural teeth, making them virtually indistinguishable. Additionally, titanium implants are less prone to corrosion within the body, contributing to their longevity. That’s why experienced professionals often choose this material for placing dental implants.

Zirconia

Zirconiabridges are a great choice if you’re searching for something strong and good-looking. They can be customized to suit a wide range of style preferences. While they may come with a higher price tag, their customizability and long-lasting appeal make them worth it. Just be sure to choose a skilled professional for the job, as repairs can be tough if they’re ever damaged.

Bone density

When determining if a patient is a good candidate for the procedure, one of the key factors is the amount of bone remaining in the jaw. Implants work best when they are surrounded by healthy, high-quality bone. If there’s enough bone, the implants can be placed relatively easily, and the long-term outlook is very positive. However, for patients who have been wearing dentures for a long time—say, 15 to 20 years—there might not be enough bone volume to support the implants or an All-on-4 configuration. In such cases, the procedure is still possible, but it may require more time and effort to achieve successful results.

General health

While candidates can range in age from their mid-twenties to 100, certain medical factors play a key role in determining if someone is a good fit for the procedure. For instance, those with uncontrolled diabetes or who take immunomodulatory medication for conditions like autoimmune diseases or arthritis are generally not ideal candidates, as these factors can significantly impair healing. 

However, with proper management of diabetes or adjustments to medication, the procedure can still be feasible. Patients who have received radiation therapy for cancer might encounter difficulties, as this treatment can compromise blood flow to the jawbone. While age can range from the mid-twenties to 100 years, making most people candidates, these health conditions can impact the success of the treatment.

How to make dental implants last longer?

There are also some good practices you can follow to take care of your dental implants and help them last as long as they’re meant to.

Proper oral hygiene

If you’re not sure how long do dental implants last, maintaining good oral hygiene is essential to keeping them healthy. Brushing twice a day and flossing daily are essential steps. Be sure to use a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste to gently clean around the implants without harming the surrounding tissues. This routine helps prevent plaque buildup, which can lead to gum disease and potentially cause implant failure.. 

Lifestyle and habits

Can dental implants last 50 years? It’s well-known that certain lifestyle choices can either support or undermine your health over time. When it comes to dental implants, unhealthy habits can shorten their lifespan and cause complications. Some of the most common factors that can negatively impact dental implants include smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, poor diet, and overall poor oral hygiene. 

Regular check-ups

Regular dental check-ups every six months are crucial for the long-term success of your dental implants and can influence how long they actually last. During these visits, your dentist can monitor the health of your implants and gums, catching early signs of issues like inflammation or bone loss. Professional cleanings are also important, as they remove tartar buildup that regular brushing and flossing might miss, helping to protect your gums and the stability of your implants.

Who can I trust for dental implant quality & longevity in Poway & the region? 

If you’re still wondering how long a tooth implant lasts or how well it will work for you, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at Temecula Dental Implants & Oral Surgery! Whether you have questions about veneers, other treatments, or any dental concerns, Dr. Tsvetov is here to provide detailed answers. Plus, with the latest advancements in the field, we can offer even better care at more affordable prices! So if you’re in Poway or nearby areas, get in touch and start your journey with trusted dental implant specialists!

References

• Ilser Turkyilmaz and Tolga F Tözüm: “30-Year Outcomes of Dental Implants Supporting Mandibular Fixed Dental Prostheses” Oct 2015. Doi: 10.1097/ID.0000000000000321 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26288163/ 
• David French, DDS, Dip.Perio, et al. “Long term clinical performance of 10 871 dental implants with up to 22 years of follow‐up: A cohort study in 4247 patients” Jun 2021. Doi: 10.1111/cid.12994 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8359846/