How Long Do Dental Implants Last? Is It Worth the Investment?

Dental implants are considered to be the gold standard of tooth replacements, and one of the reasons for that is the fact that they last for so long. Given the complexity of implant surgery, and the amount of preparation and investment that goes into each procedure, it’s really important that you take good care of your implant so that it lasts for as long as possible. Let’s take a closer look at how long do dental implants last and what you might be able to do to extend their lifespan.

So How Long Do Teeth Implants Last?

Every patient is different and, with good dental care, your implant could last for the rest of your lifetime. This is because the implant will integrate with your jaw just like your other teeth and cannot be removed like other tooth replacements. On average dental implants can be expected to last for between 12 and 25 years.

You should bear in mind that the dental crown that is placed over the top of the implant will need replacing sooner, probably in 15 or 20 years time, but that is a procedure that can be done relatively quickly.

Why It Matters That Your Dental Implant?

Having implant surgery is a protracted process that could last for as long as 18 months, depending on the complexities of your case. Remember that the dental implant procedure is actually made up of a series of mini procedures and between each stage, you need to allow your body sufficient time for healing. Having dental implants isn’t something that can be completed overnight and it’s not a process that you want to repeat too often.

What You Can Do To Contribute To A Successful Dental Implant Procedure?

Practice Impeccable Dental Hygiene

Taking good care of your dental implant and your natural teeth is a major part of your role as a patient. Getting an infection at the site could compromise your dental implant and lead to complications.

Further tooth decay or gum disease could complicate or compromise your procedure too and, if your missing tooth was lost as a result of tooth decay, it could be an indication that you need to improve your dental hygiene skills.

The good news is that your implant needs the same care and attention as your natural teeth. That means brushing and flossing twice a day, as well as visits to your dentist twice a year to keep your teeth and implant free of plaque.  

Follow Your Dentist’s Post-surgical Instructions

A consultation with your dental practitioner will help you get proper instructions for the surgical site to help you keep it clean and free of infection. Make sure you follow the rules carefully.

Quit Smoking 

It’s never too late to quit smoking but if you want a complication-free implant procedure that you heal quickly from, you shouldn’t smoke as it increases your chances of infection and slows down your body’s rate of healing.

Work With An Experienced Dental Practitioner

Make sure you work with a skilled and experienced dental practitioner who offers a consultation before performing your surgery. Find out what options you have in terms of the actual implant and ask how long each is said to last for. Find out about warranties and ask your dental practitioner how long his or her patients’ dental implants last before needing to be replaced.

Find Out About Your Alternatives

Dental bridges and dentures are alternatives to dental implants but they tend to have shorter lifespans and need to be replaced and repaired more frequently than dental implants. When comparing your options make sure to offset the cost with lifespan so you can make a fair comparison.

For a more personalised answer to “how long do dental implants last”, it’s time to book a consultation at your local dental clinic Please contact us: (02) 8203 8760.