What Is the Lifespan of a Dental Implant

A missing tooth will affect more than your confidence to smile. It can also impact your oral health, ability to speak or to enjoy your favorite foods. 

Fortunately, nowadays, you can restore your oral health with the help of a dental implant. 

But, since they require quite a financial effort and have a lengthy recovery time, you may want to know how long implants last. 

Here's an answer. 

How Long Do Dental Implants Last?

Dental implants are designed to be permanent fixtures. That means that with proper care, the actual implant (the metal screw that gets inserted into your jawbone) can last a lifetime. 

However, the success and lifespan of a dental implant can vary depending on several factors, such as the location of the implant, your oral health, and how much attention you paid during the aftercare. 

When it comes to the crown attached to the implant, it generally has a lifespan of  10 to 15 years. However, with proper care and maintenance, some crowns can last even longer. 

How Do Dental Implants Work?

Dental implants have three parts:

• A small titanium post - This small screw is surgically inserted into the jawbone. The implant then bonds with the bone, creating a solid foundation for the replacement tooth. 

• The abutment - Once the implant has bonded with the bone, a small connector piece, called the abutment, is placed on top of the implant. This abutment is used to secure a crown (or bridge or denture, depending on what you need.) 

• The crown - This is the final step of the dental implant process. The crown will complete the look and allow you to use the implant to its full functions. 

Factors That Impact the Lifespan of a Dental Implant

While dental implants are designed to be long-lasting, it doesn't mean they are indestructible. Several factors can affect their longevity, such as: 

• Your oral hygiene - This is one of the main factors that can affect the lifespan of your implants. Poor oral hygiene can lead to the development of plaque and tartar. Over time, you can develop gum disease, a leading cause of implant failure. 

• Smoking: Tobacco use can also increase the risk of implant failure. 

• The location of the implant: Dental implants used to support a bridge or denture are usually under more stress than those used to support a single crown. This can affect their lifespan.

• Bone density: If you don't have enough bone density, implants may not be suitable for you. You can fix this with a bone graft, but the overall process will take even longer. 

‍We Can Help You Restore Your Smile 

Do you want to restore one or more missing teeth and are thinking about dental implants? The team at Harrison Family Dentists can help you find out if implants are right for you and provide one of the best dental services in Saratoga. 

Contact us online to book your appointment with one of our dentists in Saratoga Springs and Gloversville.