The Durability of Dental Implants
The longevity of dental implants depends on various factors, including the type of material, where the restoration is placed, your oral health, and your oral hygiene habits. What sets dental implants apart from other types of restorations is that they’re made of long-lasting, titanium alloy. This allows these fixtures to slowly integrate into the jawbone, providing a durable fit that can give you a beautiful smile that’s sure to last for years to come.
The Total Lifespan of Dental Implants
Dr. Kovacevic will discuss your dental implants during your initial consultation, including the techniques employed and if you require supplemental treatments. The osseointegrated titanium implant is the most common dental implant patients typically receive.
Research shows that implant longevity depends on which jaw the dental implant is placed, with 84 percent success for the upper jaw and 93 percent for the lower jaw over a 12-year period. Dr. Kovacevic can help explain this dynamic during your visit.
Dental Implants & Your Health
There’s a symbiotic relationship between your jaw and teeth. Every time you move your jawbone, the force tears the tissue and catalyzes the bone to regenerate itself. This is similar to working out a muscle. When you lose a tooth, the stimulation your jaw needs is no longer in that area, which can lower your candidacy for dental implants due to its lower density.
There are four bone qualities that can impact the success of your implants:
- Type I: 97.6 percent
- Type II: 96.2 percent
- Type III: 96.5 percent
- Type IV: 88.8 percent
Recent advancements in technology have allowed more patients than ever to receive dental implants. Dr. Kovacevic will discuss the most effective options for your smile during your initial consultation. The lifespan of a dental implant depends on your oral hygiene routine and how closely you follow the aftercare instructions to ensure your fixture is long-lasting.
What About Teeth Grinding?
Much like how your oral hygiene plays a role in how long your dental implants last, so can certain habits, including bruxism (teeth grinding and jaw clenching). Patients who grind their teeth suffer from higher rates of dental implant failure. If you grind your teeth, there’s no need to panic. Just make sure Dr. Kovacevic is aware of the issue before your procedure. A nighttime mouthguard can be especially helpful immediately following dental implant surgery.
Improving Your Implant Candidacy
During your initial consultation, you’ll discuss your smile goals and Dr. Kovacevic will fully examine your oral health to ensure the success of your new smile. We also offer supplemental procedures that can increase the success rate of your dental implants. Be sure to arrive at your consultation with any questions or concerns you may have so we can address them.
There’s no better option for replacing missing teeth than dental implants.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can dental implants fail after a few years?
It’s not uncommon for dental implants to fail due to poor oral hygiene, severe infection, or damage to the surgical site itself. As long as you practice a consistent oral hygiene regimen at home and visit your dentist for routine check-ups, your restoration will be sure to last. In cases where your implant needs to be replaced, your dentist can supply another one.
What is the average lifespan of dental implants?
A well-maintained dental implant can last for 20 years or more, depending on your smile’s health. Your dentist will check your restoration during your routine check-ups to see if it’s time for a replacement. In most cases, the dental crown will need to be switched as a result of normal wear and tear, while the titanium fixture stays permanently attached to your jawbone.
What factors can affect how long my implants last?
Different factors can play a big role in the survivability of your dental implants:
- Jawbone density
- Dental implant placement
- Oral health and habits
With proper care, 90 percent of patients will continue to experience the benefits of dental implants beyond 15 years. By brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing daily, and scheduling regular dental appointments, you can ensure your dental implants last a lifetime.
How can I boost the longevity of dental implants?
The best way to boost the longevity of your dental implant is to maintain proper oral hygiene, including regular brushing, flossing, and mouthwash rinses. It’s also good to make some lifestyle changes, including quitting smoking and reducing your consumption of alcohol. Be sure to meet up with your dentist for regular checkups to ensure there’s nothing wrong with your implant.
Dental Implants: Your Smile’s Lifetime Solution
With proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime. Dr. Kovacevic is proud to offer this restorative option to complete your smile. Call our office in Greensburg at (724) 836-2433 and schedule your consultation. We serve patients in Fort Allen, Bovard, and South Greensburg, PA.