Are Dental Implants Permanent? Lifespan and Maintenance Tips

Dental implants have revolutionised the world of tooth replacement. Unlike crowns and bridges, they provide a permanent-feeling solution that closely resembles natural teeth in both function and aesthetics. But one common question that arises when considering this treatment option is: Are dental implants permanent?

The answer, like many things in dentistry, is a nuanced one. This article delves into the lifespan of dental implants, explores factors affecting their longevity, and equips you with essential maintenance tips to maximise their success.

Key Takeaways:

• With proper care and maintenance, dental implants can last a lifetime, providing a permanent-feeling solution for missing teeth.
• Maintaining excellent oral hygiene, regular dental checkups, and avoiding harmful habits such as using teeth as tools are vital for extending the lifespan of dental implants.
• Pay attention to symptoms like pain, swelling, or redness around the implant, and consult a qualified dentist immediately if you experience any issues.

Getting to Know Dental Implants

Before we move on directly to its lifespan, let’s establish a foundational understanding of dental implants. A dental implant is an artificial tooth with a screw at the bottom made from titanium. Unlike traditional dentures or bridges that rest on the gums or surrounding teeth, implants are surgically placed by screwing them down into the jawbone.

Over time, osseointegration happens, which means the implant fuses with the jawbone. This will create a stable and secure foundation for a replacement tooth, typically a crown, bridge, or denture.

Are Dental Implants Permanent? 

Not exactly, but close. The good news is with proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime! In fact, studies show success rates exceeding 95% after ten years, a remarkable feat in dentistry. However, it’s essential to understand the distinction between the implant itself and the restoration it supports (crown, bridge, etc.).

The implant itself is embedded in the jawbone and with proper care, can last a very very long time.. The titanium material from the implant fuses with the jawbone through a process called osseointegration, which creates a solid bond. However, the crown, bridge, or denture attached to the implant may require replacement over time due to wear and tear. 

What is the Lifespan of a Dental Implant?

The lifespan of dental implants may vary due to different factors and individual circumstances. With proper care and maintenance, dental implants can last 20 to 30 years or even a lifetime.  However, several factors can influence their lifespan, including:

• Quality of the Implant: As with any medical device, the quality of the implant material and its design plays a significant role. Reputable dentists use implants from trusted manufacturers known for their biocompatibility and durability.  At Whitehorse Dental, the majority of our implants placed are the reputable Straumann brand from Switzerland.  They are the gold standard in implant dentistry and the company is a world leader in implant research and development.
• Surgical Technique: The skill and experience of the dental surgeon placing the implant impact its success and longevity significantly. A meticulous surgical technique ensures proper placement and minimises the risk of complications that could shorten the implant’s lifespan. For instance, the dental surgeons at Whitehorse Dental are equipped with years of experience doing dental implants, coupled with their state-of-the-art equipment to help make patients feel comfortable.
• Bone and Gum Health: A strong, healthy jawbone is crucial for osseointegration and implant stability. Patients with active gum disease are not suitable for implant dentistry.  Implants need to be placed into a mouth where the remaining teeth have excellent gum health.  The presence of gum infections or gum disease will jeopardize the longevity of the implant.  As such, any active gum disease or periodontal disease must be managed first…before any dental implants are placed. 
• Oral Hygiene Practices: Meticulous oral hygiene is paramount for the long-term success of dental implants. Proper brushing, flossing, and regular dental cleanings remove plaque and bacteria that can lead to peri-implantitis, an inflammatory condition that can damage the bone surrounding the implant.
• Lifestyle Habits: Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can negatively impact gum health and bone density, both of which can affect implant longevity. Other habits can also put dental implants under excessive stress, like teeth grinding and clenching.

Dental Implant Care and Maintenance

Your chosen dentists will provide some essential maintenance tips that you can follow to help you significantly increase the lifespan of your dental implants:

Maintain Excellent Oral Hygiene

Brushing twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and interdental cleaning is crucial. Consider using special interdental brushes designed for cleaning around implants. These brushes have angled bristles that can reach into the tight spaces between the implant and surrounding teeth.  You can also ask your dentist or hygienist to recommend a specific oral hygiene routine tailored to your implant care.

Schedule Regular Dental Checkups and Cleanings

Your dentist can assess the health of your implants, gums, and surrounding bone during regular checkups. Professional cleanings remove built-up plaque and tartar that your toothbrush and floss might miss. The frequency of your checkups and cleanings will vary depending on your individual needs and oral health, but typically, they are recommended every six months.

Don’t Use Your Teeth as Tools

Avoid using your teeth to open bottles, chew on hard objects like ice, or use them for anything other than chewing food. This can put undue stress on the implants and potentially damage them.

Maintain a Healthy Diet

A balanced diet rich in essential nutrients like vitamins, minerals, and calcium is crucial for maintaining strong bones and healthy gums. Strong bones provide a solid foundation for your implants, and healthy gums help prevent inflammation and infection around the implant site.

Address Concerns Promptly

If you experience any pain, swelling, or bleeding around your implants, contact your dentist immediately. Early intervention can prevent minor issues from escalating into more serious problems.

Additional Tips for Dental Implant Maintenance

Despite your best efforts to maintain a healthy dental environment, occasional issues might arise. Early detection and treatment are key to preserving your implant. Here are some signs to watch out for:

• Bleeding, swelling, or redness around the implant
• Pain or discomfort around the implant site
• Loose feeling in the implant or surrounding teeth
• Chipped or cracked crown

If you experience any of these symptoms, don’t hesitate to contact your dentist immediately. Early intervention can often resolve the issue and prevent implant failure.

A Long-Term Investment in Your Smile

Dental implants are a real game-changer in dental technology that provides a natural-looking and highly functional solution for replacing missing teeth. While not technically “permanent” in the strictest sense, with proper care and maintenance, dental implants can last for decades, providing you with a confident smile and improved quality of life for years to come.

Remember, consulting with a qualified and experienced dentist is the first step towards achieving successful and long-lasting dental implants. They can assess your individual needs, discuss the implant process, and create a personalised plan to ensure your dental implant journey is a success.

Are you ready to take the leap and get dental implants? No worries because Whitehouse Dental is here to make you want to keep your smile for a long time! With our years of dental experience and the latest technology, we are committed and confident to give you the best dental experience in Blackburn, Victoria! Dial +61 3 8838 8820 to schedule an appointment to see our dentist and visit our stress-free dental clinic for your dental implant procedure.