How Long Do Dental Implants Last?
Humans only have one set of adult teeth, so when you lose a tooth, your body cannot grow another one. However, oral surgeons have found a way to replace it with something nearly identical: dental implants.
What They’re Made Of
The longevity of dental implants is due in large part to the materials used to make them.
The implant post: A titanium or zirconia post that is implanted in the jawbone and becomes the new tooth root.
The abutment: Typically made of titanium and connects the implant post to the crown.
The crown: Made of ceramic or porcelain, the crown is affixed to the abutment and serves the look and function of a real tooth.
These materials ensure that dental implants last a long time. The implant post will last an average of 25 years or longer before needing to be replaced, or it may never need to be replaced. Because they are exposed to more wear and tear, the abutment and crown will need to be replaced every 10-15 years, depending on how well they are taken care of.
How Can I Get the Most Life out of my Dental Implants?
As implants tend to be an investment purchase, it is expected that you want to get the most out of them. Here’s what you can do to extend their life:
Enact a diligent oral hygiene regimen: brush twice a day, floss daily, and use mouthwash.
Don’t chew on ice or bite down on hard candy. This can damage the porcelain crown.
Go to the dentist every six months.
If you want to learn more about the benefits of dental implants, visit us at Midland Dental & Oasis Kids and Orthodontics.