How Long Do Dental Implants Last?

Are you considering getting one or more dental implants? Dental implants are the highest quality tooth replacement option available. A dental implant completely replaces a tooth, root and crown. It looks and functions as closely as possible to a natural tooth.

If you’re considering this option you may be wondering, how long do dental implants last? Here’s what you can expect in terms of longevity for this tooth replacement option.

The average lifespan of a dental implant is at least 30 years, but many last longer. The majority of patients who receive a dental implant under the recommendation of a dentist will have it in place for the rest of their life. Dental implants are the longest lasting tooth replacement option available, including dental bridges and dentures.

To understand why a dental implant is capable of lasting for such a long time, it helps to understand exactly what a dental implant is and how it works. The implant root is a titanium post (resembling a threaded screw) that is surgically placed in the jaw bone in the area where a tooth is missing. When all goes well, the implant fuses with the bone to form a solid, lasting bond. A porcelain crown is attached to the implant that matches the color and size of your natural teeth.

For your dentist to recommend a dental implant, you must meet the following criteria:

• Sufficient bone density in the jaw. The jaw bone needs to be thick and strong enough to support a dental implant. For the implant to fuse properly with the jaw bone, you must have healthy bone structure.
• Healthy gums. The gum tissue needs to be healthy for an implant to be successful. If gum disease is present or any other gum issue, that will need to be cleared up first.
• Good overall health. If you have any underlying health issues that may affect the success of a dental implant, you may not be an ideal candidate. Discuss your health issues with your dentist during the consultation.
• Being a non-smoker. Smoking is particularly detrimental to the success of a dental implant. Smoking results in poor gum health, which often means the dental implant may fail to establish a secure hold.
• Practicing good oral hygiene habits. For a dental implant to be successful, it is necessary to take care of your teeth and gums. It is recommended that you have your teeth cleaned four times a year. Brushing your teeth twice a day with an electric toothbrush and flossing once a day. If you already have these habits in place, you are an ideal candidate for a dental implant.

The above criteria make you an ideal candidate for a dental implant and increase the likelihood that your implant will be successful and last a lifetime. The next important factor is your dentist’s responsibility.

Accuracy of the dental implant placement is an important factor in the success and longevity of your dental implant. Dr. Golia fabricates a surgical guide for the surgeon to ensure placement of the implant at the correct angle and depth that will allow it to fuse with the bone. The team approach and experienced dentists who utilizes technology in dental implant placement will help to ensure that your implant will last.

The success of a dental implant depends on the patient as well as the dentist. Dr. Golia will perform a thorough evaluation to determine whether or not you are an ideal candidate for a dental implant and will only recommend that option if it is in your best interest and has a good chance of success. Dr. Golia will then refer you to an experienced surgeon to accurately place your dental implant so that it will last as long as possible.

Call 203-248-7400 or contact us today to schedule a consultation. We look forward to providing you with the best tooth replacement option.