Dental implants are posts or frames surgically attached to the jawbone to replace missing teeth. Unlike dentures or bridges, dental implants are not attached to other teeth. This makes dentals implants sturdier. But how long do dental implants last, and are they really worth the time and expense?

Who is a good candidate for dental implants?

Dental implants are a good option to replace missing teeth for the following types of people.

  • Generally healthy patients: No other major health challenges increase the chance of dental implant success
  • People with strong bones: Because implants sit in the jawbone, patients must have adequate healthy bone in the area of the implant
  • Patients invested in proper oral hygiene: Even if poor oral hygiene caused the need for implants, patients who recommit to proper cleaning are good candidates

Smokers, those with low jawbone density, and patients with comorbid conditions like diabetes or other uncontrolled health conditions may not be able to receive dental implants.

Can dental implants last forever?

While it is true that nothing lasts forever, dental implants give that claim a run for its money. But, how long do dental implants last in the real world? Five clinical research studies show that when cared for properly, dental implants have an average lifespan of 20 years.

Although it is difficult to conduct a long-term, large-scale study to show this, some patients report dentals implants lasting up to 50 years. The 50th anniversary of the first dental implant procedure was in 2015. The patient who received those first implants passed away at 2006, clocking nearly 40 years of implants. The second dental implant patient is still going strong with six implants, nearly 50 years later!

Increase the durability of your dental implants with these simple steps:

  • Choose the right dentist: An implant specialist is the best choice
  • Take care of your implants: Brush and floss regularly, and visit the dentist at least twice yearly for cleanings and check-ups
  • Stay healthy: Diabetes and osteoporosis can contribute to implant failure
  • Eat right: Excessive bite force can eventually crack or break implants

Let’s talk about each of those, as well as the procedure itself, in more detail.

How are dental implants applied?

The process of getting dental implants takes several visits spread over months.

The first step is getting a titanium tooth root implant placed in your jawbone. These posts can also be made of zirconia for a metal-free option. Once this post is in place, the bone heals over six to 12 weeks, fusing to the implant. This healing securely anchors the post to the jawbone.

Next, your dentist fits an abutment to the tooth root implant. This abutment will hold the new tooth. Your dentist then takes an impression of all of your teeth and uses that impression to create a permanent tooth. Permanent teeth constructed from ceramic or porcelain provides the most natural look, and when done by a highly-trained ceramicist are almost identical to existing teeth. Once the permanent tooth is ready, the dental implant is installed and the fit is checked.

Dental implants can replace single teeth. They can also replace an entire mouth of teeth. Generally, implants are sturdier and offer better fit than dentures (though implant-supported dentures are also an option). Additionally, dental implants generate bone growth. Chewing on them helps the implant post stimulate existing bone.

Dental implant aftercare

After dental implant surgery, take it easy. Doing so will increase how long these last.

When you first get home from the dentist, use gauze to apply gentle pressure to stop any residual bleeding. Change gauze every 30 minutes after the first hour until bleeding stops.

In general, pain and swelling can be managed with ibuprofen and icepacks. Apply icepacks 15 minutes on and 15 minutes off for the first 24 hours. Follow all of your dentist’s directions regarding prescription pain medications or antibiotics.

For the first 24 hours after surgery, your two major activities should be rest and relaxation. Stockpile movies and books and rest.

Practice proper oral hygiene

Start best oral hygiene practices immediately. You can brush your teeth the same day of surgery. Take care around the implant site. After 24 hours, use saltwater rinses to gently flush the surgical site. Do not swish vigorously, and do not use any type of sucking motion. Suction can dislodge the clot that is being created, causing a painful condition called dry sockets.

When eating, stick to soft foods the first 24 hours, gradually increasing textures over the next week. Avoid extremes in temperature (especially too hot). Stay away from spicy food that can aggravate the surgical site. Other foods to avoid include anything that is very hard (e.g., pretzels) or anything that requires excessive bite force.

Patients may experience bruising or discoloration both inside and outside of the mouth. This is normal and will diminish gradually. Some patients’ jaws are sore and stiff after surgery. Gentle stretching can help with this.

Healing times for dental implants vary widely. Minor discomfort in the days following surgery is to be expected, but you should be feeling better by the end of the week. Overall, the bone will heal around the implant somewhere between six to 12 weeks.

If you experience extreme pain, fever, chills, excessive bleeding, or persistent nausea, contact your dentist immediately. These are symptoms of infection and should be checked out.

Are dental implants worth the money?

Dental implants are among the most expensive options to replace missing teeth, and most dental insurance only covers an estimated 10% of the cost. While the upfront cost is something to consider, the cost of dental implants over time is much less than other options like dentures and dental bridges since dentures and removable dental bridges typically only last between five and ten years. If dental implants last five times as long as dentures, that can balance out the initial cost.

Dental implants and dentures both require a period of adjustment, but most patients report more comfort with implants after this period has passed. Dental implants are more secure and do not rub, chafe, or otherwise irritate the gums like dentures can.

Many dentists also offer payment plans to ease the cost burden of dental implants.

AZ Dentist is your Phoenix area cosmetic dentist. Give us a call to examine your current implants or to see if implants are right for you!

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