According to the Australian Dental Association (ADA), Australian adults have an average of 4.5 missing teeth. There are many reasons why people have a gap in their smile, including decay, gum disease, and injury.
While dentures and bridges can help restore the appearance of a full smile, they come with several drawbacks, including poor fit, high maintenance needs, and frequent replacement. Dental implants are a more permanent solution for missing teeth.
Dental implants are titanium posts inserted into the jawbone to serve as artificial roots. Once in place, dental implants can support a single tooth, a bridge, or a full set of dentures.
How long do dental implants last? With proper care, a dental implant can last a lifetime. Unlike dentures and bridges, dental implants will never need to be replaced. This makes them a more cost-effective solution in the long run.
How Long Do Dental Implants Last?
Dental implants are made from titanium, a strong and biocompatible metal that integrates with bone tissue.
They are placed directly into the jawbone, fusing with the bone over time.
This process, known as osseointegration, helps to secure the implant further and prevent it from shifting or slipping.
Clinical studies have shown that a dental implant can last for decades, and in some cases, it may even last a lifetime.
The restoration part of the implant (the crown or bridge) will eventually need to be replaced due to wear and tear, typically every 20 years, depending on the materials used for fabrication.
How Long Do Dental Implants Last? What Affects the Dental Implant Lifespan?
While dental implants are designed to last for many years, there are a few factors that can influence their lifespan:
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Patient Age
Younger patients have a higher success rate with dental implants, as they typically have stronger bones and a lower risk of developing medical conditions that could affect implant healing, like diabetes.
A 2011 study demonstrated a 97.44% cumulative survival rate in patients under 40, while patients older than 79 had a 66.67% survival rate.
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Jawbone Quality
Bone tissue is reabsorbed into the body without stimulation from a tooth root. The longer you have a missing tooth, the more jaw bone deterioration you are likely to have. Dental implants require a thick, dense jawbone to support the titanium post.
In cases where the jawbone isn’t suitable for dental implants, a bone graft may be necessary to build up the bone before implant surgery can be performed.
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General Health
Patients in good general health tend to have a lower risk of complications and a higher success rate with dental implants. Several conditions preclude you from receiving dental implants, including autoimmune diseases, blood clotting disorders, and chronic illnesses like leukemia.
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Oral Health
Good oral hygiene is essential for the success of a dental implant. It’s important to brush and floss regularly and to see your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings. Patients with gum disease or other oral health issues may need to be treated before getting dental implants.
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Implant Length and Diameter
The length and diameter of a dental implant can also affect its success rate. Your dentist must choose an implant that is the right size for your jawbone. Long implants have a higher risk of sinus perforation or nerve damage, while implants with a diameter either too wide or too narrow for the socket place excessive lateral stress on the jaw bone.
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Implant Location
Implants placed in the back of the jaw tend to have a higher failure rate than those placed in the front. This is because the back of the jaw sustains higher biting and grinding forces than the front teeth, leading to premature wear and tear.
The Risks of Dental Implant Surgery
As with any surgical procedure, potential risks should be considered before dental implant treatment. Possible complications during surgery include infection, nerve damage, and sinus perforation. The implants may also be rejected by the body or fail to fuse with the bone properly.
At No Gaps Dental, the safety and success of our patients are our priority. Our practices are strictly maintained according to the highest hygiene standards, and we only use state-of-the-art implant technology.
We require all patients and staff to sterilise their hands with a hand sanitiser upon entering, and there are hand sanitiser dispensers placed throughout the practice for patients and staff to use.
We maintain a clean and clutter-free environment and follow strict sterilising equipment and hand sanitiser usage protocols.
How Long Do Dental Implants Last? How to Prolong the Life of Your Dental Implants
To avoid late-term implant rejection or premature wear and tear, there are a few tips for prolonging the life of your dental implant:
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Brush and Floss Twice Daily
Be sure to use a soft-bristled toothbrush and toothpaste designed for dental implants. Gently brush all surfaces of the teeth, being careful not to scratch the implant. When flossing, avoid snapping the floss against your gums or pulling upwards against the implant.
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Use an Interdental Brush
An interdental brush can help remove plaque and food debris around the implant. Use one that is the appropriate size for the space between your teeth.
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Quit Smoking
Smoking is bad for your overall health, but it’s also one of the leading causes of implant failure. If you smoke, it’s important to quit before getting implants and to abstain from smoking afterwards.
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Avoid Hard Foods
Chewing hard food can put undue stress on your implants, eventually leading to breakage or loosening. Avoid chewing on ice, hard lollies, or nuts to protect your implants.
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See Your Dentist Regularly
It is essential to see your dentist every six months for a professional cleaning and examination. This will help identify potential problems early on and ensure that your implants are healthy and functioning properly.
Get High-Quality Dental Implants at No Gaps Dental
If you’re looking for a high-quality dental implant, look no further than No Gaps Dental. We use the latest technology and techniques to ensure that our patients receive the best possible care.
We also offer a wide range of services so that you can find the perfect treatment for your needs. Our experienced dental professionals will work with you to find the best solution for your smile. Contact us today on (02) 8007 6727 to schedule a consultation at one of our 15 Sydney locations.
Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
References
How many teeth do you have? How many will you keep for life?
https://www.ada.org.au/News-Media/News-and-Release/Media-Releases/How-many-teeth-do-you-have-How-many-will-you-keep
Factors Affecting the Survival Rate of Dental Implants: A Retrospective Study
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5774056/