How Long Do Dental Implants Last?
Dental implants are designed to last a lifetime — and with proper care, they can. However, even with excellent oral hygiene and regular dental visits, implants may need replacement over time. That’s why we tell our patients they can expect dental implants to last 10 to 15 years on average.
Sometimes, implants exceed this lifespan, offering decades of reliable performance. Other times, they may not last quite as long. The longevity of your dental implants will depend on several key factors.
Which Factors Affect How Long Dental Implants Last?
The longevity of dental implants can vary based on a range of factors. Here are some of the most important ones:
- Implant Location: Implants placed toward the back of the mouth endure greater chewing forces, which can lead to quicker wear compared to implants in the front.
- Oral Hygiene: Maintaining a consistent routine of brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups is critical to preventing issues like gum disease that could shorten the lifespan of your implants.
- Bone Health: The quality and density of the jawbone supporting the implant play a significant role in its long-term success.
- Lifestyle Choices: Smoking, alcohol, or a diet high in sugar can negatively impact both your oral health and the longevity of your implants.
- Overall Health: Chronic conditions like diabetes or osteoporosis can affect healing and bone density, potentially impacting implant success.
- Clenching or Grinding: Excessive force from bruxism (teeth grinding) can put undue stress on implants, reducing their lifespan.
What Causes Dental Implants to Fail?
Dental implant failure is when the body rejects new dental implants. This usually happens within the first year of placement and is often due to a specific problem.
Common reasons for dental implant failure include:
- Inadequate Bone Support: If the jawbone isn’t dense or strong enough, the implant may fail to osseointegrate.
- Gum Disease: Periodontitis and peri-implantitis (a form of gum disease around implants) can weaken the surrounding tissue and bone.
- Poor Placement: Incorrect positioning of the implant can lead to complications and failure.
- Infection: Any infection during or after the procedure can interfere with proper healing.
- Excessive Force: Misaligned bites, teeth grinding, or an impact to the head area can put too much pressure on the implant.
How Long Do Dental Implants Last Compared to Other Restorative Dental Options?
Dental implants are known for their longevity – especially when you compare them to other similar restorative dental procedures like dental prosthetics. Here’s how long those solutions typically last:
- Dental Bridges: Typically last 5 to 10 years, requiring more frequent replacement.
- Dentures: Last around 5 to 8 years before needing adjustments or replacement.
- Fillings and Crowns: Fillings can last 10 to 15 years, while crowns generally last 10 to 15 years depending on care.
Dental Implant Expertise in Vancouver, WA
When it comes to restoring your smile, dental implants are a game-changer. While certain factors can impact their longevity, patients consistently find that implants are a durable, reliable solution.
At Lewis Family & Implant Dentistry in Vancouver WA, we specialize in creating long-lasting smiles with dental implants. From initial consultation to final placement, we’ll ensure you’re set up for success. Call us today if you have questions about dental implants or if you’re ready to schedule your consultation.