There is conflicting information on how long dental implants last. Some sources say 10-15 years, while others say a lifetime. Our dentists here at Bridge Creek Dental wanted to set the record straight and clarify how your dental implant can potentially last 10-15 years and a lifetime at the same time!
Various Factors Effect How Long Dental Implants Last
As a single dental implant is made up of three different parts, the crown, abutment, and implant post. These three parts can have varying lifespans, depending on the care given to your overall oral hygiene.
- Crown – The crown of your dental implant will typically last around 10-15 years. This lifespan is average for a crown used in other dental procedures such as root canals and bridges. Depending on how much wear and tear your teeth undergo and your attention to your oral hygiene, the crown can outlive its 10- to 15-year average lifespan.
- Abutment – As the crown usually encases the abutment, its lifespan is generally dependent on the crown’s lifespan, making the abutment’s lifespan about 10-15 years. However, if it becomes exposed by receding gums, it can become damaged sooner and cause you to need both a new crown and abutment.
- Implant post – With its fusion with the jawbone, the titanium implant post is the most durable part of your implant. With proper care, your implant post can last your entire life!
Potential Causes Behind Dental Implant Failure
There are situations that can cause the dental implant to fail altogether and not just its separate parts. Some of the potential causes behind total dental implant failure are:
- Periodontal disease – As periodontal disease is a serious gum disease, it is not surprising that it can cause your mouth to reject the implant as the disease progresses.
- Peri-implantitis – Unlike periodontal disease, which affects all of your gums, peri-implantitis is when just the bone and gums around your dental implant become inflamed due to overly hard biting forces or localized bacterial infection. Left untreated, it can cause the implant to fail.
- Diabetes – Patients who have diabetes have a higher risk of gum infection. Any gum infection can increase the risk of dental implant failure and other complications, such as gum recession, which can expose the implant.
- Facial trauma – Your dental implant crown can be shattered by facial trauma, or the whole implant can be knocked out with severe facial trauma. Bone grafting would likely need to take place before another dental implant could be placed if you lost your original one to facial trauma.
- Poor oral hygiene – Dental implants will look and act just as your natural teeth do, and they will need the same careful care. Do be careful flossing around them, as floss can potentially become trapped between where the crown and implant meet.
Where You Can Receive Dental Implants In Billings, MT
If you are interested in receiving dental implants and you live in Billings, Montana, or the surrounding towns, contact us for an appointment. One of our dentists will consult with you, and if you choose to go forward with your dental implant after the consultation, we will be happy to help you achieve your perfect smile.
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