Implants have come a long way in recent years, offering a fantastic cosmetic finish and state-of-the-art technology. So it’s no surprise it’s becoming a more popular procedure, with global figures predicting a 10% annual rise.
If you are contemplating dental implants, you may wonder about the benefits vs costs. Specifically, you might ask: how long do dental implants last? Well, we have all the answers for you right here.
What Are Dental Implants
Dental implants replace a missing tooth and can solve severely broken, damaged or lost teeth. Dental implants fix to the jawbone, offering a solid solution that’s far improved on more traditional false teeth.
How Long Do Dental Implants Last?
Many types of dental implants last anywhere between 20 to 30 years.
You’ll get the upper end of that figure when choosing a good-quality implant procedure from a reputable dental clinic. For example, at our award-winning Bath Spa Dentistry, we have a wealth of experience in implant fittings.
Dental implants, on average, last around 25 years with proper care and maintenance.
Ways to Improve Your Dental Implant Lifespan
When you get dental implants, how long they last will depend on how well you look after them. Here are some ways you can extend that lifespan.
Dental Hygiene
You should look after dental implants the same way you do with natural teeth. That starts with brushing your teeth twice daily and flossing daily (including either side of the implant).
You should also book regular slots with your dental hygienist to get a professional clean and polish.
You should also invest in an interdental brush. These will help you clean around the implant.
Lastly, use mouthwash to protect against bacteria and your mouth from infection and gum disease.
Get Checkups Twice a Year
It’s easier for your dentist to remedy problems with your teeth if they spot the warning signs early. So attend dental checkups twice a year.
When getting dental implants, ask your dentist if they want to do more frequent checkups in the months following the procedure.
Be Careful With Contact Sports
Contact sports are always a concern for our teeth – you risk breaking or cracking a tooth! With implants, you have the added problem of damaging them and paying for a complete replacement.
Always wear a suitable mouth or gum shield if you want to continue playing your contact sport.
Avoid Hard Food
Some foods are more likely to damage and crack our teeth. So avoid these at all costs when you’ve had an implant, as they may break or loosen the tooth.
These foods include hard-boiled sweets, nuts, ice cubes, and lollies.
Don’t Smoke
If you want to maintain a white colour on your implant, avoid any product that causes discolouration. That includes tobacco, red wine and coffee.
Tooth Grinding
You might have a nighttime tooth-grinding habit if you have cracked a tooth. If that’s the case, wear a mouthguard at night. This will help prevent the risk of breaking or loosening your implant.
Are Dental Implants Right for You?
The benefits of dental implants include a better smile and a solution to broken or damaged teeth. Plus, you now know the answer to the question: how long do dental implants last? The answer is decades, so they are a fantastic long-term option.
Head here to book a consultation with our team to discover more about our dental implant services.