Many individuals who aren’t happy with their smiles because of missing teeth and who don’t want to deal with removable dentures on a day-to-day basis opt for dental implants. While a dental implant procedure itself typically takes less than an hour, the results can last a lifetime. Once the implant is fully healed, results can be in place for more than 40 years as long as implants are cared for properly and the patient is proactive in receiving dental exams on a routine basis. The crown, or the imitation tooth itself, typically lasts 10 to 15 years before requiring replacement.
Various factors potentially limiting or affecting the duration of a dental implant include the following:
- Poor diet
- Lack of care or cleaning
- Failure to follow up with a dental professional
- Poor dental hygiene
- Location in the mouth – implants used for chewing, located primarily in the back of the mouth, may require faster replacement due to wear and tear
- Pre-existing medical condition
- Diabetes
- Periodontal (gum disease)
While dentures can be removed and cleaned, permanent implants are designed to function like your real, natural teeth. Dental implants are not subject to decaying overtime like natural teeth. While bridges may cause stress and impact on adjacent teeth, implants do not negatively affect the surrounding teeth.
As long as patients floss and brush regularly, and visit their dental professional at least twice a year for bi-annual checkups, they can extend the life of their dental implants even further. Keeping up with a regular oral hygiene routine is not just imperative for your dental implants, but your existing natural teeth and overall oral health.
Dr. Ted Herrmann of Assure A Smile is a seasoned dental professional with 25 years of experience in his own practice. During the duration of his career, Dr. Herrmann has improved the lives of numerous patients seeking a confident smile through the use of dental implants. For more information on your procedure, potential risk factors based on your medical history or to schedule an appointment, contact the Assure A Smile office.
