How Long Do Dental Implants Last?

Dental implants are unmatched by other restorative dental treatments when it comes to filling gaps in your smile caused by missing teeth. As the only surgically implanted restorative dental treatment, dental implants are superior to both bridges and dentures because they replace both the crown (visible part of the tooth) and the tooth root (in the bone). With good oral hygiene habits and regular dental visits, dental implants should last at least a lifetime.  

Can Dental Implants Last a Lifetime?

Not only can dental implants last for a lifetime, they often do. The implanted cylinders fuse with the bone in a process called osseointegration. During osseointegration, the bone and the soft tissues grow up and around the implant, just like with natural tooth roots. The result is a secure anchor for the dental post and crown to attach to, again, just like natural teeth attach to their roots.  

The implants are made of durable and biocompatible materials such as titanium and zinc, which do not degrade over time, thus extending the lifespan of the implants.

However, patients are ultimately responsible for extending the longevity of dental implants. Between each dental visit, it is crucial to brush twice daily and floss daily, treating your implants like natural teeth. At the first sign of gum disease, pain, infection, or other problems, it is important to see your dentist. 

With excellent oral hygiene and lasting oral health, your dental implants may never need to be replaced.  

Dental Implants Can Improve Oral Health

Dental implants can help improve your overall oral health. The reasons? Dental implants offer benefits such as:

• Preventing further loss of jawbone
• Preventing teeth adjacent to a gap from drifting into the empty space 
• Preventing additional tooth loss by strengthening the jawbone
• Protecting empty pockets from debris accumulation and subsequent infections

Moreover, dental implants can help improve mental and emotional well-being, as missing teeth are known to cause problems with self-esteem and self-confidence. Tooth loss may indirectly contribute to avoiding social gatherings and even job opportunities, thus resulting in a reduced quality of life. 

If you are missing one or more teeth, dental implants should be a restorative dental treatment option you consider. During your initial consultation, your dentist will conduct a full oral exam, including imaging tests to confirm good oral health and sufficient jawbone to support dental implants.  If you decide to move forward with dental implants, you’ll have a series of appointments, that include placing the implant and following up with your recovery process. If you have insufficient bone height and density, treatments such as bone grafting may first be necessary.

Book a Consultation for Dental Implants in Merrick, NY

Dental implants are an advanced restorative dental treatment that gives you your smile and life back. Dental implants allow you to enjoy your favorite foods again, smile broadly at loved ones, and support good oral health. To book a dental implant consultation in Merrick, NY contact Elite Family Dental Care today at 516-608-0001. Elite Family Dental Care is a Google 5.0-star rated all-age dental practice that provides comprehensive restorative, cosmetic, endodontic, and periodontal care for all ages.