Dental implants are one of the best long-term solutions for replacing missing teeth. If you’re wondering how long they will last, the good news is that with the right care dental implants can last a lifetime! But there’s a little more to it than that. Let’s take a look at what affects their longevity and how to keep your implants in great shape for years to come.
What Affects the Lifespan of Dental Implants?
Dental implants are built for longevity. The titanium implant post fuses with your bone and should last a lifetime. However, the crown that’s attached to the implant post may need to be replaced at some point. Depending on the type of material, crowns usually last around fifteen to twenty years.
However, several factors can impact how long a dental implant will last. Gum disease, teeth grinding, certain health conditions, and bad habits like smoking can all cause implant failure.
Oral Hygiene
Just like natural teeth, implants need daily brushing and flossing to prevent plaque buildup and keep your gums healthy. Neglecting your oral hygiene can cause gum disease, which is one of the leading causes of implant failure.
Lifestyle Habits
What you eat and how you use your teeth can make a difference. Habits like chewing on ice, hard candy, pens, or fingernails, can cause unnecessary wear on the crown. Smoking, vaping, and excessive alcohol use can slow healing, increase inflammation, and raise the risk of implant failure.
Overall Health
Dental implants rely on strong jawbone support. Some medical conditions like osteoporosis, diabetes, or gum disease can affect healing and bone density, leading to implant failure.
Bite Pressure
Grinding or clenching your teeth (bruxism) can put extra stress on the implant and its crown. The pressure could crack or break the crown, forcing you to get a replacement sooner than expected.
Signs Your Implant Crown May Need Replacement
While your implant post should last a lifetime, the crown may eventually need to be replaced. Look out for these warning signs:
- Visible cracks, chips, or wear
- Changes in your bite or discomfort when chewing
- Gum recession around the implant
- Loosening of the crown or abutment
If you notice any of these problems, don’t wait—schedule a checkup to keep your implant in top shape!
Protecting Your Investment in Your Smile
Keeping your implants in top shape comes down to daily care and regular checkups—small steps that make a big difference. As long as you stick to good oral hygiene habits and get a checkup every six months, you’ll be able to keep your implants in great condition.
At Baker Dental of West Branch, we’re committed to providing high-quality dental restorations that last. Whether you’re considering dental implants or simply need a checkup, we’re here to help. Contact us today—your smile deserves the best care!
Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (03/17/25). Photo by Gustavo Fring on Pexels.