How Long Do Dental Implants Last? (Tips, How to Clean Them, and More)
by Stead Willis
Dental implants are one of the top teeth replacement options in the dental world.
Implants are highly regarded because they’re:
- Natural-looking
- Permanent
- Durable
With all that being said, you may be wondering:
“How long do dental implants last?”
In this blog, we’ll answer that very question and tell you how to clean and care for your implant!
Let’s dive in.
Do dental implants last forever?
Yes! Dental implants are designed to be a permanent solution.
They have a success rate of more than 95%!
Implant posts are traditionally made of titanium, a strong, biocompatible metal.
The post can last a lifetime.… This text opens a new tab to the Healthline website… as long as you keep up with your dental care.
The crown that is placed on top of the post is made of porcelain. It can last anywhere from 15-20 years with good oral hygiene
Additionally:
Implant-supported bridges are a common solution for two or more missing teeth in a row. This type of restoration can last anywhere from 10-15 years!
An implant-supported denture may be recommended if you’re missing multiple or all your teeth. This teeth-replacement solution could last up to 20+ years – even a lifetime.
The longevity of all these different restoration methods depends on various factors, including:
- Who places the implant
- Your oral hygiene
Who places your dental implant
It’s vital to have an expert place your dental implant. Some dental practices work with an oral surgeon to safely perform the procedure and provide the best overall results.
An oral surgeon ensures a precise implant placement and smooth healing process.
Excellent oral hygiene
You must properly clean your implants and the surrounding area to prevent implant failure and other serious health complications like peri-implantitis.
Peri-implantitis is a pathological disease caused primarily by bacteria from plaque buildup around your implant and gum lines. It can lead to inflammation in soft tissues and progressive bone loss if untreated.
3 ways to clean your dental implants
Food particles can get trapped beneath the crown and adhere to the implant post, so you should floss at least once a day.
However:
Traditional floss can shred, so you should opt for alternatives like:
- Water flossers, like a Waterpik
- Interdental brushes
- Floss threaders
1. Water flossers
A water flosser is a small water device that delivers a high-pressure stream of water to remove plaque from your teeth.
2. Interdental brushes
These are essentially like tiny toothbrushes that glide between your teeth and implants as string floss would.
3. Floss threaders
Floss threaders are made of plastic-like materials to slide beneath the crown and remove debris. It won’t shred like traditional floss.
With all of these methods, you should gently floss all the way around the post and crown.
You should brush at least twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste.
Visit your dentist regularly for follow-ups and biannual appointments.
Also, you can increase your implant’s lifespan by avoiding habits, such as:
- Smoking
- Teeth grinding
- Not wearing a night guard
- Consuming dark-colored foods and drinks (Over time, these can stain your crowns and teeth.)
Looking for a dental implant specialist?
Dr. Stead Willis offers dental implants in our Durham dental practice!
Dr. Willis will create a custom implant that’ll last for years to come and restore your smile’s function and beauty.
Schedule a consultation to see if you’re a candidate for dental implants.
Or:
- Call us at 919-286-2235
- Email us at appointments@steadwillisdmd.com
Stead Willis DMD is located in Durham, NC… This text opens a new tab to our Google listing…, and proudly serves the surrounding communities of Chapel Hill, Raleigh, and Burlington.
