How Long Do Dental Implants Last?

Dental implants are the most effective and long-lasting solution for replacing missing teeth. Unlike dentures or bridges, which may need adjustments or replacements over time, dental implants are designed to be a permanent solution.

However, the longevity of dental implants depends on several factors, including your commitment to good oral hygiene, the quality of the implant, your lifestyle, and overall health. So, how long do dental implants last? Let’s explore the key aspects that influence their lifespan.

A dental implant is a small titanium or ceramic post that is surgically placed into the jawbone, where it serves as a replacement for the root of a missing tooth. Over time, the implant fuses with the bone in a process called osseointegration, providing a stable foundation for an artificial tooth (a crown) or other dental prosthetics, such as a bridge or denture. This process ensures that the implant behaves just like a natural tooth in terms of stability and function.

With proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime. Studies and clinical reports show that most dental implants have a success rate of around 95% to 98% after ten years. In many cases, dental implants can last 25 years or more. The key to their longevity lies in maintaining good oral hygiene and regular dental visits, as well as addressing any underlying health conditions that could impact the success of the implant.

While the implant post itself is permanent, the dental crown placed on top of it may need to be replaced after 10 to 15 years, depending on wear and tear. Crowns are typically made from durable materials like porcelain or ceramic, but like natural teeth, they are subject to the daily forces of chewing, grinding, and biting, which can eventually cause them to wear down.

Several factors can affect how long dental implants last, including:

1. Oral Hygiene Practices
   Proper oral care is essential for maintaining the health of both the dental implant and the surrounding gum tissue. Regular brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings help prevent gum disease and infection, which can compromise the implant. Just as with natural teeth, poor oral hygiene can lead to peri-implantitis, an inflammatory condition that can cause bone loss around the implant and lead to its failure.
2. Bone Density and Quality
   Dental implants rely on a healthy, dense jawbone for stability. Patients with sufficient bone density typically experience longer-lasting results. If there is inadequate bone, procedures like bone grafting may be needed to ensure the implant’s stability. After successful integration into the jawbone, the implant becomes even more secure over time, contributing to its long-term success.
3. Smoking and Tobacco
   Use Smoking does not automatically disqualify you from getting dental implants. However, studies have shown that smoking and tobacco use can increase the dental implant failure rate. Smoking reduces blood flow to the gums and bone, impairing healing and increasing the risk of infection after implant surgery. Before placing your implants, your oral surgeon will assess your risk factors and overall health and create a plan for you.
   
4. Health Conditions
   Certain medical conditions can impact the longevity of dental implants. Conditions like uncontrolled diabetes, autoimmune diseases, and osteoporosis may affect the body’s ability to heal properly after implant surgery, leading to a higher risk of implant failure. However, with careful planning and management, many patients with these conditions can still benefit from implants.
5. Bruxism (Teeth Grinding)
   If you suffer from bruxism, a condition where you grind or clench your teeth, it can place excessive pressure on dental implants and cause wear on the crown. Over time, this can shorten the lifespan of the restoration or lead to complications. A night guard can help protect both your natural teeth and implants from damage caused by bruxism.
   
6. The Quality of the Implant and Prosthetics
   The materials used in the implant and the crown play a significant role in how long they last. High-quality dental implants made from biocompatible titanium and well-constructed prosthetic teeth (crowns) tend to last longer. At Harmony, we use only high-quality dental implants from Germany and the US to ensure the best possible results for our patients.