How long dental implants last depends on your oral health, dental medical history, oral hygiene habits, whether or not you smoke, and how regularly you see your dentist.
Most of our patients’ implants lasts 25-30 years. Because of new technology, some placed in recent years will last 40 years or longer. In time, you may need to replace the crown (the artificial-tooth part of the three-part implant), but the implant itself, which replaces the tooth root, usually will last a lifetime.
Dental Implants – Better Than Alternatives
Implants certainly last longer than alternatives such as dental bridges, dentures, crowns and mini-implants, which commonly must be replaced every 15 years. Plus, implants are also more comfortable, do not slip, and stand up to chewing and biting better than these alternatives, because they are integrated into the jawbone.
Because they look, feel and function like natural teeth, dental implants help improve confidence and self-esteem. They also make it easier to speak, eat and kiss! And caring for them is as easy as caring for your natural teeth.
Protecting Your Dental Implants Starts With Surgeon Selection
If your surgery is performed by an experienced oral surgeon like Wilmington Oral Surgery’s Dr. Scott Puckett, your dental implant may last longer. Surgeons who specialize in implants know how to place implants correctly, address any complications, and determine when the implant has completely fused with the bone.
Implants at the back of the mouth experience more day-to-day pressure from chewing than those in the front, and may fail more quickly.
People with diabetes or cancer are at a higher risk of dental implant failure than others.
When you come to Wilmington Oral Surgery to discuss the potential of getting an implant, we will review your medical history and hygiene habits carefully and make a plan for your surgery. If you are a good candidate, chances are your implants will last decades or longer.