Dental implants in La Mesa have quickly climbed to the top as a preferred tooth replacement option because they are an investment. Unlike traditional treatments, dental implants can eventually pay for themselves because they don’t need to be replaced every few years, but how long do they actually last? Here’s what you need to know to choose the most cost-effective solution to rebuild your smile.
How Often Do Dental Implants Need to Be Replaced?
Dental implants are unlike any other prosthetic because they replicate the entire structure of a tooth, including the root. A titanium implant post is surgically placed into your jaw to serve as a root. This stimulates your bone to encourage new growth.
Your jaw will fuse to the post through a process called osseointegration. This provides a strong framework for your restoration, which is connected to the post using an abutment. Together, each piece of the dental implant allows it to have over a 95% success rate to last for several decades, but there are various factors that influence how long each component will last.
Dental Implant
Dental implants are proven to last for several decades with the right aftercare. You should never need to worry about having them replaced. Generally, the risk of failure is less than 5%, which often results from an infection called peri-implantitis. You can reduce your risk of it by maintaining your oral hygiene and visiting your dentist regularly.
Abutment
An abutment has a greater risk of damage than the implant post. In some cases, it may need to be replaced at the same time as the crown.
Crown
Your crown will suffer daily wear and tear. As a result, it will need to be replaced about every 10 to 15 years, but there are several things you can do to promote how long it lasts.
How Can I Ensure My New Smile Lasts?
Dental implants are a cost-effective solution to replace your missing teeth. There are several things you can do to protect your investment, including:
- Use a nonabrasive toothpaste and tartar-control toothpaste to clean your dental implants and any natural teeth at least twice a day.
- Use a high-quality dental floss to clean in between each tooth and around the abutments daily.
- Treat bruxism with a nightguard.
- Don’t use your teeth as tools.
- Don’t chew on inedible objects.
- Wear an athletic mouthguard if you play sports.
- Visit your dentist at least twice a year for a cleaning and checkup.
- Don’t ignore early warning signs of a problem, like your implant feeling loose or pain.
Invest in Your Smile Today!
You can enjoy a lasting solution to replace your missing teeth with dental implants. Ensure your new smile has the foundation it needs to thrive with the right prosthodontist by your side.
About Dr. Peter F. Johnson
Dr. Peter F. Johnson is a board-certified prosthodontist who specializes in rebuilding healthy, beautiful, and functional smiles. He offers advanced solutions to treat complex oral health issues, like tooth loss. If you’re missing teeth, he can replace them with dental implants. Contact our office today to schedule your consultation.
