Do you have your eyes set on dental implants to restore your smile? 

However, are you wondering, “Is this really worth it?” or “How long will dental implants last?” in the back of your mind, you are not alone.

Here’s the deal – missing teeth don’t just affect your smile. They eat away at your confidence and comfort too. And if you’ve found yourself here, chances are you aren’t interested in short-term solutions like dentures. You’re probably looking for something that feels and functions like your natural teeth and becomes a permanent fixture in the long run. Then, dental implants are for you. 

Designed to last decades (even a lifetime), dental implants are the closest you can get to restoring the look, feel and function of your natural teeth. They’re not just a tooth replacement solution, they are your ticket to eating, laughing and living your best life. 

At Brisbane Implants, we are here to help you make the best decision. So, let’s get to the question that brought you here: “How long do dental implants really last?”

How Long Do Dental Implants Last? 

Dental implants comprise three separate components: 

• The implant post that’s placed in your jawbone.

• The abutment or the connector piece that links the post to the dental prosthetic. 

• The dental prosthetic that restores your smile.  

Out of these components, both the implant post and the abutment are typically designed to last. With proper care, they can even last a lifetime. 

As for the dental prosthetic, it is the least durable component of the dental implant. However, it’s still built to last, only needing replacement every 5-15 years. 

That being said, it is important to note that individual experiences may vary with factors such as care and maintenance and lifestyle habits affecting the longevity of your dental implants. 

Factors Affecting the Longevity of Dental Implants

When it comes to answering the pressing question of how long dental implants last, the truth is, that it depends. It depends on several factors such as: 

• Proper Maintenance: Dental implants are an investment in your smile. Like any investment, they need a little TLC. Post-surgery, our dentist will share detailed aftercare instructions for you to follow. Don’t worry though – caring for your implants isn’t difficult. It’s all about committing to a daily routine and staying consistent with daily brushing and flossing and regular dental checkups. 

• Bite Force and Teeth Grinding: Excessive bite force or grinding can put undue stress on your dental implants. This can put unnecessary stress on both the implant and surrounding structures. To protect your implant, you should be mindful of your bite and seek treatment for teeth grinding. 

• Lifestyle Choices and Habits: Your day-to-day choices matter more than you think. For instance, smoking and heavy alcohol consumption can increase your risk of gum disease, spelling trouble for your implants. Similarly, a diet high in sugary foods and drinks can lead to plaque buildup, impacting your implant’s success. 

• Overall Health: Your oral health plays a crucial role in the success of dental implants. Systematic conditions like diabetes and autoimmune disorders can slow down healing and increase the risk of complications. Therefore, it’s important to share your full medical history with our dentist so we can create a tailored plan for you. 

• Jawbone Quality: Your jawbone health is the foundation of your implant’s success. A strong, healthy jawbone keeps implants stable while conditions like osteoporosis and bone loss can pose challenges. Before the procedure, we will assess your bone to make sure it’s healthy. 

• The Skill and Experience of Your Dental Surgeon: Our skilled and experienced dentist ensures precise placement of your implant, minimising complications. We will also guide you with aftercare tips to ensure implant success. For these reasons, choosing a dentist with specialised training and experience is always a good idea. 

How to Protect Your Dental Implants

Your dental implants are an investment in yourself. Just like any investment, they need proper care and attention to maximise their benefits. 

The good news? Keeping dental implants in good shape isn’t hard. Here are some essential dental implant care tips: 

• Maintain good oral hygiene.

• Visit the dentist every 6 months.

• Quit smoking and limit alcohol consumption.

• Maintain a healthy lifestyle.

• Wear a mouthguard if you grind your teeth or play contact sports.

• Contact our team immediately if you experience any discomfort, pain, or changes in the appearance or function of your dental implant.

 

Want to learn more about dental implants? 

Our team at Brisbane Implants is here to help you restore more than just your smile. We’ll help you reclaim your confidence, comfort and quality of life. 

So, make an appointment today and experience high-quality dental care at our clinic.