Do Implants Last Forever?

Dental implants are one of the most widely known solutions for replacing missing teeth that last for a long time. However, as far as time is concerned, how long is a “long time?” If you’re a patient who is considering getting dental implants, one question you might ask is:

Do implants last forever?  

The answer is not as straightforward as a simple yes or no. While dental implants are designed to be a long-term solution, their lifespan depends on various factors, including how well they are cared for and the health of the surrounding tissues.

So, how long do dental implants last, and what can you do to ensure they stay in top shape for as long as possible?

Table of Contents

1. How Long Do Dental Implants Last?
2. The Structure of a Dental Implant
3. Why Dental Implants Don’t Last Forever
4. The Role of Oral Hygiene
5. How to Make Your Dental Implants Last
6. What Happens If You Don’t Care for Your Implants?
7. Can Dental Implants Last Forever?

How Long Do Dental Implants Last?

Dental implants are meant to provide a long-term solution for missing teeth. In fact, a well-placed, well-planned, and well-maintained implant can last for many decades. However, it’s hard to give an exact expiry date for implants because there are many factors that impact their longevity.

To give you a clearer picture, let’s take a look at the structure of a dental implant.

The Structure of a Dental Implant

A dental implant consists of three main components:

1. The Implant Post: A titanium screw that is placed in the jawbone to act as an artificial tooth root.
2. The Abutment: A connector that attaches the implant post to the dental crown.
3. The Crown: The visible part of the implant that looks like a natural tooth.

Whilst the implant post is made from durable materials like titanium and can last a lifetime, the crown may need replacement after 10–15 years due to normal wear and tear. The good news is that with proper care, dental implants can serve you well for a very long time.

Why Dental Implants Don’t Last Forever

You may think, “If dental implants are made from durable materials, why do they not last forever?”

Whilst dental implants are made from tough and durable materials, they are not indestructible. Unlike natural teeth, which have a bit of natural resistance to plaque and bacteria, dental implants are a foreign body—this means you are not born with it. Thus, they are more susceptible to infections and complications if not properly cared for.

The Role of Oral Hygiene

Unlike natural teeth, implants lack the natural resistance to plaque and bacteria. Whilst natural teeth have enamel and a connection to the body’s immune system, dental implants are foreign objects, making them more susceptible to infection if not properly cleaned.

Plaque and bacteria can build up around implants just like they do on natural teeth. If left untreated, this can lead to infections, gum disease, or even implant failure. The longevity of an implant depends on multiple factors, including:

• Oral Hygiene: Just like natural teeth, dental implants require daily brushing and flossing to prevent infection.
• Bone Health: A strong, healthy jawbone is crucial for implant success. At Whitehorse Dental, we are proud to showcase that our practice holds high success rates for dental implants.
• Gum Health: When gums are inflamed and infected, it may cause gum disease. This can weaken the support around an implant, which will eventually lead to failure.
• Lifestyle Habits: Smoking and poor diet can also shorten the lifespan of dental implants.
• Regular Dental Visits: Routine check-ups and professional cleanings help maintain implant health, just like natural teeth.

How to Make Your Dental Implants Last

If you want your dental implants to last as long as possible, there are a few key steps you need to follow.

1. Clean Your Implants Properly Every Day

Proper daily cleaning is essential for the longevity of your dental implants. Here’s what you should do:

• Brush twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
• Use interdental brushes to clean the areas between your teeth and around the implant.
• Floss daily to remove plaque and food particles from hard-to-reach areas.

Your dentist will also provide specific instructions on how to care for your implants after the procedure. Following these guidelines on implant recovery is crucial for keeping your implants in great shape.

2. Visit Your Dentist Regularly

Regular dental check-ups are just as important for implants as they are for natural teeth. During these visits, your dentist will:

• Clean your teeth and implants professionally.
• Check for any signs of infection or complications.
• Provide advice on how to improve your oral care routine.

At Whitehorse Dental, we recommend scheduling check-ups every six months, or depending on what your dentist advises, to ensure your implants and overall oral health stay healthy.

3. Maintain a Healthy Mouth Before and After Surgery

The biggest factor to the success of your dental implant procedure also depends on the health of your mouth at the time of surgery. Dental implants should not be placed in a mouth with existing infections, gum disease, or other dental problems. 

Before getting implants, your dentist will address any issues with your natural teeth and gums. This ensures that your implants are placed in a healthy, ideal environment, reducing the risk of complications later on.

What Happens If You Don’t Care for Your Implants?

Neglecting your dental implants may lead to serious problems along the way. Because implants are less resistant to bacteria than natural teeth, poor oral hygiene can result in:

• Peri-implantitis: A condition similar to gum disease that affects the tissues around the implant. This usually happens after a dental implant procedure, especially when the oral environment is not prepared to welcome a foreign body.
• Implant failure: In severe cases, the implant may loosen or need to be removed.

To avoid these issues, it’s essential to clean your implants thoroughly and visit your dentist regularly to keep them maintained.

Can Dental Implants Last Forever?

Dental implants are one of the most durable and reliable tooth replacement options available today, and they often last decades with the right care. Whilst they may not technically last forever, proper oral hygiene, a healthy mouth, and regular dental visits can help extend their lifespan significantly to ensure you get a complete teeth structure.

If you’re considering dental implant treatment in Blackburn, you can always trust our team at Whitehorse Dental to help support you toward your dental implant journey. Our experienced dentists will guide you through each step, from preparing a healthy environment for your implant to maintenance and aftercare. 

Schedule a consultation or call us at (03) 8838 8820 today.