How Long Do Dental Implants Last?

Dental implants were invented in 1952 by Swedish orthopedic Ingvar Branemark. The first implants were presented at the Toronto conference in 1982. Dental implants were a revolutionary success in dentistry, introducing the concept of osseointegration.

People who have lost teeth or have spaces in their mouth can smile confidently once again with dental implants. They look and function like natural teeth, thereby improving confidence and self-esteem.

However, the benefits of implants reach far beyond aesthetics. They make it easier to speak, eat, smile, and laugh like before. Unlike dentures anchored to other teeth, Implants are rooted to the jaw and don’t come loose at any time.

In this blog, we’ll discuss this amazing dental restorative procedure, its benefits and complications, and how long it lasts.

Do Dental Implants Work?

Dental implants replace lost or damaged teeth. The metal screw secures the artificial teeth into place to replace one or more missing teeth.

A surgeon places dental implants into your jaw during an oral surgery. Once in position, it is covered with a crown for protection. Depending on your oral health, lifestyle, and goals, your dental implants can be restored with crowns, bridges, or dentures.

While dental implants have a high success rate, their effectiveness depends on the location of missing teeth, your oral health, and your lifestyle.

As they penetrate the jawbone, dental implants may not be suitable for diabetic patients or smokers. A prior consultation with a professional dentist will ascertain whether you’re a good candidate for dental implants. They will examine your teeth, gum health, and jawbone to determine whether the procedure will benefit you.

Who is a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?

Dental implants are used to replace missing teeth. If you have one or more missing teeth, dental implants can provide natural-looking results. This restorative procedure works well on patients who have lost teeth due to:

• Cavity or decay
• Gum disease
• Tooth fracture
• Facial/jawbone injury
• Bruxism (grinding of teeth)
• Congenitally missing teeth (born with missing teeth)

Who Shouldn’t Opt for Dental Implants?

There are certain risk factors associated with dental implants. These make certain patients ineligible for the procedure, depending on their lifestyle and oral condition. Dental implants may not be suitable if:

• The patient is below 18 years of age
• Has a smoking or tobacco consumption habit
• Having significant bone loss in the jaw
• Poor oral hygiene
• Extensive tooth decay or gum disease
• Suffering from autoimmune diseases or bone disorders

Everyone has a unique oral health history. To know if you’re the right candidate for tooth implants, consult a professional dentist.

Dental Implants: What Happens During the Procedure?

Dental implants are completed in five steps. However, there are certain precautions that you need to take before and after the procedure.

Before the procedure:

• Tell your dentist about all medications or supplements you’re currently taking.
• Ask your dentist if they would sedate you before the procedure.
• Visit your care provider for blood work to ensure there aren’t underlying conditions that may affect the dental implant procedure.

During the procedure:

The implant procedure is as follows:

• Sedation/Anaesthesia

The dentist will administer local anesthesia into your gums or sedate you with medications.

• Incision

As the sedation/numbing agent takes effect, the surgeon will create an incision on your gums to place the dental implant. The cut on the gums reveals the bone beneath where the implant is to be fixed.

• Opening Jawbone

The surgeon will then create an opening in your jawbone with specialized instruments. The opening is made as per the diameter of the tooth implant.

• Sealing the Incision

Once the implant is placed, the surgeon will stitch the incision on your gums.

Your dentist may provide you with a temporary restoration while you’re healing from the surgery. Once the implant is healed, the dentist will replace the temporary restoration with permanent ones like a crown or a bridge. Sometimes, these restorations are placed on the same day of the procedure.

After the procedure:

• Take medications and supplements as prescribed by your care provider
• Chew food on the other side of your mouth from the implant
• Clean the implant as directed by your dentist
• Brush regularly

Benefits of Dental Implants

Patients can enjoy the form and function of natural teeth with dental implants. Its benefits include:

• Enhancing your facial aesthetics
• Improving the appearance of your smile
• Replacing lost teeth without altering neighboring teeth
• Improved chewing and speech abilities
• Securing bridges and dentures
• Implants are immune to cavities

Ensure to have a good oral hygiene routine after the procedure. Poor hygiene may lead to gum diseases and complications with your implants.

Dental Implant Complications 

Dental implants have a high rate of success when performed by a professional surgeon. However, complexities may still arise in rare events. These may include:

• Infection around the implanted area
• Loose implant
• Nerve or tissue damage
• Pressure around the implanted area causes the implant to loosen or fall off
• Sinus damage (if implants are placed on the upper jaw)
• Inflammation of the surrounding bone and gums due to infections or biting force.

Make sure to follow up with your dentist and practice routine maintenance to avoid these complications.

How Long Do Dental Implants Last?

Dental implants are a permanent teeth replacement solution – with the right care and maintenance, they can last for more than 25 years. However, the restoration over your implant may need replacing in 5-15 years.

You must consult with your dentist periodically to keep your oral health in check after a dental implant surgery.

Restore a Beautiful Smile with Dentistry at Consilium

Opting for dental implants to replace missing teeth is an important decision. We, at Dentistry at Consilium understand the uncertainty and anxiety before any dental surgery. To keep our patients comfortable and confident throughout the procedure, our friendly dentists strive to make them feel right at home with high-quality care.

We will listen to your concerns and analyze your oral health to explain your dental implant options. You can rest assured that you’re treated by skilled and experienced dentists.

Consult with Dentistry at Consilium for dental implants and learn more about this restorative dentistry process and how it may benefit you.