What Is The Lifespan Of A Dental Implant?

Getting dental implants in Glenpool is an excellent way to restore your smile and support your overall oral health.

But if you’ve been Googling how long implants last, you probably haven’t found a straight answer yet. That’s because a dental implant’s lifespan depends on how well you take care of it.

Keep reading to understand how long an implant lasts and how you can extend its timeline. 

The Dental Implant Process 

Here’s what you can expect when getting dental implants:

• Screening: The dentist looks at your teeth, gums, jawbone, and even medical information to make sure you’re a good candidate for implants; 

• Surgery: The metal post is inserted surgically into the jaw bone to replace the missing tooth’s root; 

• Osseointegration: It can take around 6 months to fully heal from implant surgery, as the bone and gums need to fuse to the metal post;

• Abutment: Once the implant heals, you can get the connector piece known as the abutment, and take an image to create the custom crown. You may receive a temporary crown at the same appointment.

• Crown: The final step of the process involves getting your dental crown. Once this happens, you’re done!

How Long Do Dental Implants Last?

Dental implants are permanent tooth replacements, though this doesn’t mean they’re indestructible.

The dental crown is the most likely to suffer damage and may need replacing in 10–15 years. Regular wear and tear from chewing can weaken the crown over time. But even if the crown is broken, it doesn’t mean you need to replace the metal post or abutment.

The two elements usually only need replacing in extraordinary circumstances, such as severe gum disease that affects bone health or a direct blow to the mouth that damages the bone and implant. 

How to Care for Dental Implants

Dental implants are great because they don’t require special maintenance. You can care for them like a natural tooth: brush and floss daily and see the dentist routinely.

However, you can also go the extra mile and take some precautions to protect the implant even further, such as:

• Wearing a mouthguard if you play sports or grind your teeth
• Avoid chewing on objects.
• Reducing the amounts of hard, sticky, chewy, and sugary foods you eat
• Eating more fresh fruits and vegetables
• Using a soft-bristled toothbrush
• Avoiding smoking, vaping, or using tobacco products in general
• Using non-abrasive toothpaste and making sure to brush around the implant
• Avoiding alcohol, etc. 

Your Glenpool dentist may give you more personalized tips on how to properly care for your dental implant.

Restore Your Smile at Eclipse Smiles 

Wondering if dental implants are the right solution for your smile? Dr. Chris Andrus can help you find out during a quick but thorough consultation.

Schedule a visit to Eclipse Smiles online or call us at (918) 943-0282 directly to find out more!