Dental implants have become a go-to treatment for individuals who might have severely damaged or missing teeth. They can restore an individual's smile, confidence, and self-esteem. So if you have similar issues with your teeth, one question you may have is how long dental implants last.Dental Implant Lifespan
There is no simple answer to how long dental implants last since they can have varying lifespans. According to experts, dental implants can last anywhere from 20 to 30 years, depending on factors like care and maintenance.Therefore, how long a dental implant lasts depends significantly on how much you take care of it and whether you listen to your dentist's instructions. Dental implants comprise a root made from titanium which dentists place inside your jawbone. This titanium root mimics the root of a natural tooth and holds the dental implant in place.
Next, dental practitioners place a connector and then a ceramic crown over the implant to mimic a natural tooth. Hence, a patient must care for the dental implant, similar to how they would care for a natural tooth if they want it to last longer.
What Factors Affect the Lifespan of a Dental Implant?
A dental implant can last up to 30 years with proper maintenance. However, a few factors influence how long your dental implant will last. Some of these factors include:Lifestyle Choices
Many patients fail to realize that their lifestyle choices severely impact the lifespan of their dental implants. For example, if you are a smoker or have a high intake of sugary or carbonated beverages, these habits can severely decrease the lifespan of your dental implants.The risk of implant failure is significantly higher in smokers since smoking can affect the blood flow of the area of the implant and slow down the healing process.
Moreover, habits like bruxism (teeth grinding) can significantly impact your dental implant's lifespan. You put extra pressure on your dental implant when you grind your teeth. This habit can interfere with the healing process after a dental implant installation.
Oral Health
One factor that can boost the lifespan of dental implants is maintaining optimal oral health. However, if you continuously ignore oral hygiene practices, like brushing at least twice a day and regular flossing, your dental implants may require replacement sooner than 30 years.Damage or Injury
Sudden damage or injury like a falling incident or a car accident can also impact the lifespan of a dental implant and require a replacement. However, one of the benefits of dental implants is that they are made with high-quality titanium material, making them highly durable and strong. Therefore, your dental implants will likely go unharmed in case of minor accidents.Medical Conditions
Certain medical conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and immune system weakness may affect the lifespan of your dental implant.If you have further questions about how long dental implants last and if they are suitable for you, a thorough consultation with the experts at East Valley Implant & Periodontal Center may provide answers to your inquiries. Call us at (480) 900-2771 today.
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