Dental implants are popular because they replace lost teeth permanently. It restores speech and eating confidence for the patients.
If properly maintained, they may last for decades, giving you peace of mind that no more treatment is needed. At Evergreen Dental, we know dental implants could be costly. Therefore, we wish to address everyone’s question: How long do dental implants last and how to maintain them?
It’s helpful to know dental implants’ typical lifespan. The variables that determine their lifespan and ways to prolong them will also be discussed. Read on to learn about dental implants.
What Are Dental Implants?
Titanium dental implants mimic tooth roots. These are surgically implanted in your jaw. These implants support dental crowns, or replacement teeth.
It may fill a tooth loss gap due to illness or accident. Next, the dental crown—made to match your natural teeth—is attached to the implant. You receive a durable, attractive tooth replacement that acts like a real tooth.
The surgical or invasive implant process takes many sessions. It’s one of the most effective tooth replacement options and may enhance your dental health.
The Average Dental Implant Lifespan
Quality dental implants may last a lifetime if they are maintained properly.
Below are the important maintenance aspects to be aware of:
Oral hygiene
Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential for dental implant lifespan. This goes beyond brushing and flossing. It also covers regular dental cleanings and checkups.
During these checkups, your dentist may scan your implants and fix any issues they may find. Poor oral hygiene may cause gum disease, a primary cause of dental implant failure.
Lifestyle Choices
Individuals’ lifestyle may dramatically affect dental implant lifetime. Smokers have an increased risk of implant failure owing to nicotine’s oral health impacts.
Alcohol may impede post-surgery recovery, shortening implant life expectancy as well. Balanced diets may improve dental health and implant lifespan. Considering these lifestyle habits might help your dental implants stay longer.
Jawbone quality
Another factor affecting dental implant lifetime is jawbone quality. Healthy jawbones prolong implant stability.
Bone loss or osteoporosis might damage implants. A complete dental and medical history evaluation before surgery is necessary to assess your jawbone and prepare for implantation.
These tips will also help prolong your dental implants:
Regular dental checkups
Maintaining dental implants requires regular dental appointments. Regular checkups and cleanings at your local dental clinic may identify and cure possible concerns, extending the lifespan of your implants.
In these meetings, your dentist will inspect your implants, remove plaque and tartar, and advise on oral care. Prevention is always better than therapy for oral health.
Maintain Dental Health
Maintaining proper oral hygiene is essential for dental implant lifespan. This includes brushing, flossing, mouthwash to kill germs, and an interdental brush for implants, bridges, and tiny areas between teeth.
Give up smoking and drink less
Smoking and binge drinking may shorten dental implant lifespans. Both may cause gum disease, which can cause implant failure or shorter implant life expectancy.
Consider quitting or reducing your tobacco use, and minimise alcohol consumption. A balanced lifestyle with excellent oral health practices may extend the life of your dental implants.
Live Healthily
A healthy lifestyle is essential for dental implant lifespan. This requires regular exercise, stress management, and a vitamin- and mineral-rich, balanced diet.
By protecting your dental implants, these habits may improve your overall health and oral health. Remember that your body works together, so what promotes your overall health also benefits your dental health.
