How Long Do Dental Implants Last?

Dental implants are a highly effective option for those considering tooth replacement. You get a natural-looking tooth and avoid the issues that can come with dentures or bridges. One common question our dental implant dentist in Indianapolis, IN, receives is, ‘How long do the implants last?”

How Long Can You Expect Dental Implants to Last?

It’s a fair question, but not an easy one to answer. Dental implants, by design, are intended to last up to 20 years. For some, they will last their lifetime.

We typically use a titanium post for our implants. The implant fuses with your jawbone to create a strong foundation. Once the post is secure, we add on a crown that can handle 15 years of wear and tear.

That’s all good news. There are factors that can change that dynamic, though.

What Factors Can Impact the Longevity of Dental Implants?

At the top of the list is your oral hygiene. The implants rely on your jawbone and gum tissue remaining healthy. That means you must brush, floss, and get regular dental checkups to maintain that health.

Gum disease not only erodes the soft tissue of the gums but also weakens the jawbone. That weakening can mean your implants lose their stability and come out. Other factors that matter for dental implant longevity include:

• Lifestyle—Eating right and controlling conditions like grinding teeth will help your jaw better support the implants.
• Underlying Health Problems—Certain chronic illnesses can impact your oral health and, subsequently, how long the dental implants last. Diabetes and osteoporosis are the most common issues.

Also, the quality of the implant and its placement are potential factors.

Protecting Your Dental Implants 

The best way to protect your dental implants is to maintain good oral hygiene. Our dental implant dentist in Indianapolis, IN, will educate you on what it takes to ensure your implants last a lifetime. Call us today at Indiana Emergency Dentalto make an appointment if you have questions about dental implants.