How Long Will My Dental Implants Last?

Dental implants have been in use for a long time. But the ongoing technological advances in dentistry have brought new ideas and experiences, leading to the creation of more user-friendly and durable dental implants. What is more, these modern implants are virtual replicas of natural teeth. You can get your damaged or missing teeth replaced with these implants and retain a natural look. However, there is a significant debate surrounding the longevity of dental implants. Critics question their durability.

If you are confused about who is right, you need to understand that nothing lasts forever. Nevertheless, modern dental implants can last for more than 25 years. If you want them to last that long, they need dedicated care, not unlike your original teeth. Unlike dentures, dental implants are permanent prostheses. They built to offer support to the dental structure and endure chewing and talking without slipping. While dentures are easily removable, implants are permanently attached to the bone. Therefore, you can eat, bite down, and talk without worrying about your teeth. You can even brush using a standard toothbrush and toothpaste.

In addition to replacing the missing teeth, dental implants also help to improve the structure of your jaw by minimizing pressure on the remaining teeth when biting or chewing. That way, your natural teeth tissue remains intact, and your jawbone doesn’t deteriorate. But how long you enjoy these benefits depends on several factors.

• Oral practices: Just like your natural teeth, your dental implants require proper care. You need to ensure they are thoroughly brushed and flossed at least two times a day. Also, make at least two visits to the dentist every year to have your implants checked and serviced.
• Usage: how do you use your dental implants? Chewing and biting on hard items with your teeth is risky because it could cause your implants to crack. It’s not a good idea to be that guy on YouTube who opens beer and soda cans with his shiny new implants.
• Location: Where your dental implants are in your mouth determines their longevity. For example, implants located at the back of your mouth receive excess pressure from chewing than the ones placed in front. So, the implants at the back of your mouth will wear out faster than those in front. Your doctor should advise you on how to take care of your implants based on their location.