How Long Do Dental Implants Last?
Winston-Salem, NC
 Dental implants fuse directly with your jawbone, making them permanent in a process known as osseointegration. This allows the implant to serve as a tooth root that provides a good foundation for a prosthetic tooth. To determine the average lifespan of a dental implant, we have to take a look at all of its components.
Components of a Dental Implant
Regardless of the dental implant procedure, all implants share a similar anatomy that is composed of three parts. These three components are the implant post (also known as the screw), the abutment that interfaces with the implant post, and a prosthesis (which could be a dental bridge, denture, or a crown).
Of these components, the implant post lasts the longest because it is fused directly with the bone and isn’t exposed to anything that might cause damage. The average lifespan of a typical dental implant post is about 25 years. The abutment and prosthesis are more likely to get damaged and may require replacement. Most tooth prostheses may require replacement every 10 to 15 years because of the wear and tear due to the constant forces of biting and chewing.
You can increase the lifespan of your prosthesis by taking good care of it. The location of the prosthesis also plays a role in its lifespan. Dental crowns located in the front of the mouth are likely to last longer than implant-supported dentures. This is because the back teeth are responsible for the majority of the chewing force, which may result in faster wear and tear.
With that said, implant-supported prostheses last much longer than traditional dentures.
Dental bridges are artificial teeth that fill the gap left behind by a missing tooth. They are often made from materials such as plastic or porcelain to match the color and tone of your real teeth. Both dental bridges and dental implants deliver great-looking results, but they come with their own pros and cons.
The biggest difference between the two is that dental implants, by far, last longer. On average, dental implants can last for 15 years if you take good care of them. However, dental bridges may only last five to eight years. Dental bridges may also lose their appearance over time and often get replaced well before they lose their functionality due to cosmetic reasons.
Is it Safe?
Dental implants are incredibly safe in the hands of professional dentists, such as Dr. Kurt Gibson and Dr. Tripp Bartholomew, who have years of experience.
How Many Visits Are Needed?
In general, you may be required to make five trips to our office. However, the exact number of trips depends on your specific situation.
How Painful Is It?
Patients may experience mild pain in the first three to seven days after surgery. However, pain intensity should decrease as the days progress.
If you would like to learn more about dental implants, call us at (336) 283-2593 to set up an appointment with our friendly dentists! |
