Dental implants treatment is a long-lasting tooth replacement but how long is long-lasting?
When investing the amount of money that goes into dental implant treatment, you want to be sure you get your money’s worth. It is important when considering a treatment as serious as dental implants that you opt for the best treatment option available for your personal circumstance. Dental implants are not a treatment that you can cut costs on and still get the same result.
Are dental implants permanent?
Dental implants have a success rate of 98%, and when placed correctly and cared for, dental implants can last you a lifetime. The permanency and health of implants are linked to a number of factors, all of which can positively or negatively impact your treatment. These include your general oral health, your body’s natural ability to heal and your smoking status.
While the dental implant itself can last a lifetime, there are situations in which the health of the dental implant can be affected. One factor known to affect dental implants adversely is perioimplantitis – gum disease for dental implants. And just like regular gum disease, perioimplantitis involves an infection which leads to a loss of the jawbone supporting the dental implant.
Just like gum disease is the leading cause of adult tooth loss, perioimplantitis is the leading cause of dental implant failure. The best way to avoid perioimplantitis is to have a check-up every six months, and if you’re seeing another dentist than your implant dentist, you must inform them about your implant treatment. They will then be able to take the appropriate x-rays to check the health of your dental implant.
The dental prosthetic which is attached to the implant, i.e. your dental crown, bridge or denture, has a lifespan. Depending on the patient’s age, the prosthetic usually needs to be replaced at least once. With good care, your dental prosthetic can last up to 15 years before needing to be replaced.
Your current oral health is fundamental when it comes to your implant success. Poor care and hygiene, low jaw bone density play a large role in the success rate as do the placement and angle of your implant.
Why dental implants are worth investing your time
While treatment time can take up to 6 months, there is a great benefit to your oral health. Missing teeth can create a domino effect of oral health problems. By replacing a missing tooth you aren’t just replacing a gap in your smile, you are looking after your oral health now and into the future.
If you want more information on dental implants, we recommend you download our guide here to get all the info you need.
