One of the biggest concerns about tooth replacement treatments, like dental implants, is how long they will last.
Not only does knowing this help us decide if they are a good solution to toothlessness – but it also indicates how good value for money the treatment is.
So, what is the lifespan of dental implants and how long will they last?
How long do dental implants last?
With proper care and maintenance, there is no expiration date on dental implants – they could last a lifetime.
This is thanks to a range of factors, including:
- The materials used
Constructed from highly durable, strong, and bio-compatible materials, including zirconia and titanium, dental implant screws are designed to rival and improve the strength of the jawbone.
This is thanks to the process called osseointegration – in which the jaw creates new bone that fuses with the implant screws. Using bio-compatible materials, dental implant screws can boost this extra bone production while also removing the chances that the materials will cause harm to the delicate balances and structures within the body.
With a success rate of around 98%, our Straumann implants are considered the best on the market and studies have shown they can last for decades.
- The bespoke placement
The strength and robustness of dental implants is also vastly improved by bespoke placement.
Just as our fingerprints are unique, so are the structures of our jaws, gums, and teeth – so, to allow for the pressure of biting and chewing to be properly spread across the individual’s jaw, the implants should be placed exactly where each patient needs them.
This reduces the chances of future problems, like uneven wear or breakage.
It is important to note, that this relies on the skills and expertise of the clinician fitting the implant screws – which can only be developed with years of training and experience.
What can affect the lifespan of dental implants?
This is not to say, however, that the lifespan of dental implants can’t be swiftly reduced.
Just as your normal teeth can wear out, break, or become lost if not cared for correctly, dental implants can also fail if not given diligent attention.
Dental implant failure is more likely to occur if patients:
- Don’t maintain their dental hygiene
Gum disease and infection are often the factors that cause implant failure the most.
If patients are not prepared to stay on top of dental hygiene routines, including brushing twice daily, flossing at least once, and visiting their dentist regularly, it is almost a given that implants will fail.
- Smoke
The link between smoking and failed implants is well-known and this can happen in many different ways. This is because smoking can:
- Restrict blood flow – making recovery longer and less effective.
- Increase the risk of implant failure – thanks to ingredients such as nicotine and other chemicals found within each cigarette.
- Raise the risk of infection – the chemicals in cigarettes, including nicotine, can weaken the immune system, making it harder for the body to fight off minor infections and helping larger ones to develop.
This is why patients are generally encouraged to give up smoking before dental implant treatment begins.
How to make sure you get dental implants that will last
If you are looking for dental implants in London that can last for decades to come, it is essential that you choose an experienced dental team that fits bespoke dental implants.
This way, you can be sure that your dental implants will be exceptional value for money and see you well into your later years and beyond.
With a stunning smile to be proud of.
