Rather than selecting dentures or dental bridges, many individuals are deciding on dental implants for their tooth replacement option due to the numerous oral health benefits and long-term usage. Even though implant surgery is more meticulous than other options, patients should guarantee that it’s worth the recovery time and monetary investment before going through with it.
If you’re considering dental implants as a long-term solution for tooth replacement needs, know that they look and act just like natural teeth. But how reliable are they? The life expectancy of an implant depends on your personalised oral hygiene regimen, the location of the implant in your mouth and (most importantly) how much you use them to chew. With proper care, however, these implanted teeth can last for many years.
Understanding the dental implant structure
Dental implant rods crafted from biocompatible surgical-grade titanium are implanted into the jaw bone and threaded to facilitate osseointegration–the process in which it fuses with your bone. This imitates a natural tooth root, allowing for a secure attachment of any prosthetic device. Thus, regardless of what type of dental restoration you require, these three components remain constant.
An implant is a hollow structure made to accommodate an abutment; this metal post screws into the rod and protrudes past your gum line. Lastly, you will need a prosthesis such as an artificial crown, bridge, or denture – depending on the type of surgery and the number of teeth being replaced – which attaches to the abutment through either dental adhesives or a tiny screw capped with composite resin.
How long does a dental implant last?
In terms of longevity, studies suggest that well-cared-for dental implants can last anywhere from 10 to 25 years or more before they must be replaced. However, certain factors can affect how long does a dental implant last:
- The quality of materials used in the fabrication
- Your own oral hygiene habits (remember to keep brushing and flossing those residual spaces between your restored teeth!)
- The skill level of your dentist or oral surgeon who installed them
- Whether or not you grind/clench your teeth (which can overload implant posts)
- Post-surgery instructions followed regarding activity levels during the recovery period
If you take proper care of them by brushing twice per day with a soft-bristled toothbrush, flossing daily at least once per day alongside regular visits with your dentist for checkups and cleanings, chances are very good that you’ll get many years out of them. That being said, consider talking to both your dentist and physician before beginning any kind of treatment so they can inform you about all possible risks associated with getting any sort of procedure done.
How often should you replace the implant-supported restorations?
Despite being just as durable as natural teeth, dental implants with ceramic restorations generally have an optimal lifespan of 10-15 years. However, this timeline may be different if you are a sufferer of bruxism (teeth grinding or clenching) which could lead to the restoration being replaced in less time. Bruxism usually takes place at night during deep sleep. There is a large group of people who have little to no idea how bruxism is destroying their oral health.
To guarantee that your implant-supported dental restorations last, it is paramount to practice superior oral hygiene through regular brushing and flossing. Though the material of a crown, bridge or denture may be reliable and resist tooth decay, gum disease could still affect the nearby gums. Therefore for these solutions to remain durable over time, it is crucial to consistently execute impeccable oral practices. Dental implants do not require extensive and special care, which makes it easier to maintain them for the long term.
Gingivitis and periodontitis can create inflammation of the tissue near your dental implant, leading to jawbone deterioration that causes the implant’s failure. Fortunately, a reliable restoration allows dentists to replace worn-out implants with minimal effort by merely removing them from their abutment.
How often does the dental implant need to be removed?
Technology and established protocols have made dental implant surgery one of the safest options for replacing missing teeth, granting an impressive success rate of 95%. Additionally, a thorough initial assessment is conducted to ensure patients are suitable candidates for this type of procedure.
Though a rare occurrence, dental implant surgery can sometimes be unsuccessful. If you notice any of the indicators below, it could mean that your dental implants may need to be replaced: infection around the area; implants coming loose or falling out; sinus complications because of cavities in this region; damage to tissue/nerve pain felt during inflammation and swelling in both gums and jawbone (peri-implantitis).
How to avoid dental implant failure?
Undergoing the dental implant procedure can be a lifetime investment, but only if you look after them properly. Your oral hygiene routine plays an integral role in ensuring your dental implant’s longevity; however, other factors, such as how you use your teeth and the dentist who placed the implant, also contribute to its success. With proper care and maintenance, there is no reason why it shouldn’t last for many years.
Refrain from using your teeth to open wrappers, gnawing on items such as pens, or crunching ice. If you find yourself grinding and clenching your teeth at night, make an appointment with the dentist for a personalised nightguard; it provides a cushion between your upper and lower jaw while sleeping so the teeth can relax without being put under strain.
To protect your artificial dental prosthetics from discolouration, it is best to avoid eating food and drinking beverages that are heavily pigmented. Additionally, rinsing with plain water after consuming dark substances can help maintain the vibrancy of your restorations, such as crowns or dentures. Although these types of dental restoration pieces tend to be more stain resistant than natural teeth, they, unfortunately, cannot be bleached by a professional for a whiter look.
Get the smile of your dreams at Pearl Dental Care
Are you ready to get your confidence back with a stunning smile? Dental implants not only enhance the look of your teeth but also provide various positive oral and overall health benefits. Not sure if dental implants are right for you? Don’t worry. We offer professional consultations at Pearl Dental Care to discuss any questions or concerns that come up. Get in touch with our team now and plan on making strides towards a happier, healthier future.
Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
References:
Are Dental Implants Permanent?
https://www.healthline.com/health/dental-and-oral-health/how-long-do-dental-implants-last
Factors Affecting the Survival Rate of Dental Implants: A Retrospective Study
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5774056/