Dental implants are a durable, lifelong restorative option.

If you are looking for options to replace missing teeth, dental implants are one of the most durable, long-lasting solutions available today. These FDA-approved medical devices are designed to look, feel, and function like natural teeth. They provide stability for your smile, but for how many years?

Many factors influence how long a dental implant lasts, but with proper care, they can last a lifetime. Understanding what other factors influence longevity can help you get the most out of your investment.

Durable Materials Used for Dental Implants

Most dental implant posts are made from titanium. However, some manufacturers also use ceramic. The connector portion, called the abutment, attaches to the implant and supports the final restoration. It is typically made from metal as well. 

On top of the abutment is the prosthetic tooth. The dentist works with a dental lab to make artificial teeth from various materials. They will use the material that works best for your specific case.

The Lifespan of Dental Implants

Dental implants are designed to be a long-term investment in your oral health. Each component has a different average lifespan. With proper oral care, the implant post itself can last a lifetime, and part of the reason for this is that the post integrates with your jawbone, creating a solid foundation.  

An abutment typically doesn’t need replacing unless it becomes damaged. The crown is different. This restoration lasts 10 to 15 years and requires replacement due to normal wear, chips, and cracks from accidental trauma.

Factors That Affect Implant Lifespan

Many factors impact why your tooth implant may not last as long as expected. Some of these you can control, while others you cannot.

Dental Health

You must care for your natural teeth to keep them around. Dental implants require the same diligent care. Maintaining good oral hygiene is vital. Developing good habits, like brushing and flossing, prevents gum disease. Healthy gums keep your tooth replacement in optimal shape for longer.

Lifestyle Habits

It is a well-known fact that certain lifestyle choices contribute to health issues. These choices also shorten the lifespan of a dental implant and lead to complications. Some of the most common lifestyle choices that impact your tooth-replacement include:

• Smoking
• Drinking excessive amounts of alcohol
• Having poor oral hygiene
• Using your teeth as tools

Take action and quit smoking and drinking alcohol to protect your dental implant. 

Tips to Make Your Implants Last

Once you’ve made the investment into your oral health, you want it to last. Proper care plays a huge factor in their longevity. There are several things you can do for implant maintenance.

Brush and Floss

Think of your dental implant as a natural tooth. Without proper brushing and flossing, it will deteriorate. That means you should brush at least twice daily with a soft-bristled brush and floss once daily. Some patients choose to get a water flosser to make it easier to get in between the teeth and abutments.

Routine Dental Checkups

Regular professional care is an essential factor affecting implant longevity. Scheduling dental checkups for professional cleanings allows your dental team to evaluate the implant. They’ll take X-rays to assess the bone level around your implants because bone is the foundation for your implant. If your bone deteriorates, it can put your implant at risk.

Be Mindful of What You Eat

Getting an implant to replace missing teeth can allow you to consume a variety of food and drinks. However, you should limit sugary and acidic foods to prevent peri-implantitis. This condition is a gum infection that develops around the dental implant. Drinking too much tea and coffee can stain the restoration and shorten its lifespan.

Invest in a Nightguard

Clenching and grinding your teeth is a condition known as bruxism. It is often caused by stress, anxiety, and sleep disorders. You may not be able to control this habit, but you can ask your dentist about a nightguard to protect your investment. Grinding your teeth with a dental implant causes them to wear down prematurely, chip away, or crack.

Avoid Chewing on Ice

Refrain from chewing on ice or other hard, crunchy food. These substances can cause damage to your replacement tooth. 

Understand the Signs of Implant Failure

Learn about the most common signs of a failing implant. Knowing this information will help you get treatment at the first sign of a problem instead of waiting until your regular checkup. Early intervention can sometimes save your implants. If you notice pain or swelling around the area or feel like it has become loose, contact your dentist immediately.

Get a Healthy, Long-Lasting Tooth Replacement

If you have one or more missing teeth, dental implants in Boise, Idaho, can be a long-lasting solution. Contact Staley Dental to explore your options. We’ll schedule an evaluation, and you can learn more about the pros and cons of these durable tooth replacement solutions.