A dental implant is the most reliable treatment for replacing missing teeth and a tooth. However, before receiving surgery, many people are concerned about one of the often-asked questions, how long do dental implants last? With their help, you could gain more confidence, achieve a natural-looking smile, and feel more comfortable.
In most cases, dental implants consist of a metal body embedded into the jawbone, an attachment known as an abutment, and a crown that acts as an artificial replacement tooth. Through a process known as osseointegration, dental implants attach to your jawbone, allowing normal eating, speech, and function just like a natural tooth.
How long do dental implants last?
Dental implants are intended to be a permanent remedy to tooth loss and can last between 20 and 30 years. Your oral hygiene and how well you look after your teeth will determine how long they will last. Studies have shown that dental implants have a success rate of up to 90-95% over ten years, according to Healthline. Nonetheless, several reasons could eventually cause the implant to need replacement over time.
Dental implants, as previously said, can have a lifespan of up to 30 years if dental hygiene is maintained and looked after with regular check-ups. As with any dental procedure, a variety of factors might shorten the lifespan of a dental implant which include:
- Dental Health
- Lifestyle choices
- Injury or damage
- Medical Conditions (Diabetes, osteoporosis, bleeding disorders, cardiovascular disease)
- Medications and treatments ( immunosuppressants, blood thinners, radiation therapy)
How can one increase the lifespan of a dental implant?
If you want to lower the risk of implant failure and extend the lifespan of your dental implant, there are several steps you can take.
- Maintaining good oral hygiene is one of the most critical factors in avoiding dental implant complications.
- To get rid of bacteria and lessen swelling, gently brush and floss the area around the dental implant.
- Flouride-containing antimicrobial mouthwash is an excellent addition to your oral hygiene routine for good oral hygiene.
- Smoking, eating ice, teeth grinding, and high-sugar diets are all unhealthy behaviors that can ruin your teeth.
- Regular check-ups and cleanings at the dentist are also essential.
- Keep your dentist informed regarding any changes to your medical history and prescriptions.
What are the symptoms of a failing implant?
- Mobility of the implant is one of the most common symptoms of dental implant failure.
- Other symptoms may include pain, swelling, difficulty chewing, bleeding gums, gum recession, and infection around the implant.
- Your dentist will be able to determine a failed implant and the presence of bone loss with a comprehensive clinical exam and radiographs.
Make sure to call your dentist if you experience any symptoms or indicators of a failed implant.
How to treat a failed Dental Implant?
Depending on the reason for a dental implant failure, your dentist will decide the best course of action for a replacement. Without needing to remove the implant, peri-implantitis, a moderate inflammation of the surrounding bone without any discernible bone loss, may be treated. It could entail both antibiotic treatment and extensive cleaning. Dental implants will be removed under local anesthesia if deemed not restorable.
It may be necessary to replace a dental implant with a bone graft if there is insufficient bone. Dentures or bridges may be an option if your dental professional cannot replace the site of the failed dental implant with another implant.
The primary objective of Dentistry on Dunn – Family Dentist in Oakville is to offer you a relaxing, personalized, and caring dental experience. You may book an appointment with us today.
You may contact us online or call us at 905.845.3211 to learn more about our Oakville Family Dentist, Dentistry on Dunn, and the treatments we provide.