How Long do Dental Implants Last?
As human beings, we deserve to feel comfortable in our own skin, and sadly for many of us, that’s simply not the case.
We all have our own unique insecurities, and it is these which can severely damage our mental health and our self-confidence. Some people are concerned about their weight, some their breath, some their hair, and some their smile. If you’re missing teeth, or have damaged or rotten teeth which need extracting, this can leave you feeling very self-conscious about your smile and your teeth in general. This is where dental implants can prove to be so useful.
Dental implants can help you to take back your smile and your confidence and give you the teeth that you’ve always wanted. But how long do dental implants last, what exactly are they, what are the benefits, and can dental implants last a lifetime?
Here’s a look at everything you need to know about dental implants.
What are dental implants?
Dental implants are basically small titanium screws which are attached directly into the jawbone in place of a tooth root. Needless to say, they can only be installed once a tooth and its root have been extracted.
After the dental implant has been fitted, it is then left for the jawbone surrounding the implant to begin fusing to it, helping to keep the implant secured firmly in place.
Now, you may be wondering why somebody would have metal screws fitted to their jaw, and the reason for this is because a dental crown or a denture will be fitted onto the screw to act as a false tooth.
Benefits of dental implants?
If you are thinking of having dental implants fitted, there are several key benefits:
Protect against bone loss
One of the most surprising benefits of dental implants is the fact that it can protect against bone loss.
You see, when you lose teeth, this can lead to a loss of bone mass in the jaw because without teeth you can’t chew which means your jaw isn’t working as hard.
Dental implants can help to provide the jaw stimulation needed to help maintain bone mass in the jaw.
Improved oral aesthetics
Let’s face it, one of the biggest advantages of having dental implants fitted is the fact that they can enhance your smile and improve your oral aesthetics.
If you’re missing teeth and find that this is hurting your self-confidence, dental implants can give you a healthy smile and help you take back your confidence.
Natural look
Another great benefit of dental implants is the fact that they provide a natural look.
Dental implants are designed to look virtually identical to real teeth, so if you do have them fitted, they’ll essentially look just like real healthy teeth
How long do dental implants last?
Another common question that people have regarding dental implants is how long they last. Those having the procedure may ask can dental implants last a lifetime? And the answer to that question is, not quite.
Typically, dental implants will last between 20 and 30 years, though with plenty of care and maintenance, this number can be increased exponentially.
What factors can affect the lifespan of a dental implant?
As mentioned, with care and maintenance, dental implants can last upwards of 30 years. There are however, things which can negatively impact their lifespan. These include:
- Damage or injury
- Poor oral hygiene
- Failing to visit the dentist regularly
- Poor dietary and lifestyle choices
- Other medical conditions
How to care for dental implants so they last longer
Okay, so in terms of can dental implants last a lifetime? We’ve answered that question already, but as far as how long do dental implants last? Upwards of three decades is certainly not out of the question.
To help you to increase the longevity of your implants, here are some useful tips:
- Practice good oral hygiene
- Brush twice daily
- Floss after every meal
- Use a low abrasive toothpaste
- Brush around and under the implant itself
- Visit your dentist at least twice per year
- Use a soft-headed electric toothbrush
- Clean any hard-to-reach areas
