Here at Odyssey Dental of Summerfield, dental implants are one of the most common restorative treatments performed. Hi – I’m Dr. Joseph and implants are a specialty at my Summerfield, NC dental practice. If you have implants, or considering them, you may wonder how often dental implants need to be replaced.
I’m going to answer that question and more. I’ll cover the basics of dental implants, their success rate, and how to take care of them. Implants are a permanent option that give you a smile that lasts for years and years. And it’s one of the most reliable tooth restoration options available.
How often do dental implants need to be replaced?
The American Dental Association and others have conducted studies that show dental implants can have a lifespan of 25 years or more. Because they interface with your jawbone, dental implants bond through a process called “osseointegration” and become permanent.
And while age isn’t a factor that determines if someone is a good candidate for a dental implant, it’s usually a procedure that happens mid-life. If that’s your case, your implants will probably last the rest of your life.
What exactly is an implant?
If you don’t have one, the terminology can be a little confusing at first. Think of the implant as a device or a screw that will bond with your jawbone. This implant serves as an artificial tooth root, forming a foundation for a prosthetic tooth.
Whether it is a crown, bridge or dentures, these prosthetic teeth are then anchored onto the implant. And it is these artificial teeth that may need to be replaced every 10 to 15 years. But given their permanence, coupled with the lifespan of an artificial tooth, implants are a long-term restorative solution. Learn more dental implants and how we approach restoring your smile.
How successful are implants?
According to the National Institutes of Health, implants have a phenomenal 95% success rate. And you can play a pivotal role in that success with good oral hygiene. It’s extremely important to keep your crown, bridge, or dentures clean and free of plaque – just like you do with your other teeth. Remember, plaque can cause infection which can impact the stability of the implant.
On the rare occasion an implant shifts out of place, this could indicate the bone tissue is not providing enough support. Bone loss, such as osteoporosis, or medical conditions that affect bone health can play a factor. So can certain medications, medical conditions, smoking, and grinding your teeth.
If you are considering implants, it is vital to work with a dentist well-skilled in implant procedures and who keeps up with the latest developments in this specialized area. While dental implants have been around since 1965, there are always new products and procedures that improve the patient experience.
What can you do to take care of your implants?
Caring for your implants at home is similar to caring for your natural teeth. Practicing good oral hygiene ensures your implants will last for years and never need to be replaced. And while many of the steps of caring for your natural teeth and implants are the same, there are some important things to keep in mind.
- Floss daily using an implant specific floss or wax free floss. A Waterpik can be used to assist in removing plaque around the implants.
- Use a soft toothbrush. And be sure to brush at least twice a day.
- Avoid any products, foods, or drinks containing that may stain your teeth.
- Limit intake of sugary foods.
- Antimicrobial rinses can be used to help reduce inflammation and prevent infection.
- Avoid products that contain stannous fluoride, sodium fluoride, or baking soda. These ingredients can make the implants prone to corrosion.
- Visit your dentist every six months for a checkup
If you’re considering implants, hopefully you now have a better understanding about this permanent solution. Imagine enjoying eating, talking, and smiling again. From a single tooth to an entire arch of teeth, we offer comprehensive in-house dental implant services. Secure your spot for complimentary consultation and get your smile back!