If you are dealing with missing teeth, dental implants are a great solution to revive your smile and preserve your jawbone. They are a long-lasting solution that restores both the look and health of your smile.

But how long will this restoration actually last? Well, this can depend on a lot of different factors.

Keep reading to understand how long dental implants last.

How Do Dental Implants Work?

 A dental implant is an artificial tooth that mimics a natural tooth right down to the root. Unlike other dental replacement options, implants provide a natural-looking restoration while still stimulating the jaw bone every time you chew, and preventing bone loss.

It can do that because of its structure, which consists of a metal post, abutment, and dental crown. The metal post is like an artificial root and gets inserted into the jawbone. The abutment acts like a connector piece between the post and dental crown and helps absorb some of the pressure applied during chewing.

Lastly, the dental crown is the part of the implant you can see, which supports your chewing needs and completes your smile. 

The Average Lifespan of a Dental Implant

Patients can get confused when talking about how long dental implants last. They are presented as a permanent tooth replacement option, yet when you do more research, you might learn that they will need to be replaced at some point.

So which one is it?

Well, both.

Dental implants don’t have to be entirely replaced. In most cases, the part of it that wears down is the dental crown. This component can last anywhere between 10-15 years, possibly even longer with the right maintenance.

Though the dental crown is strong, it can chip, break, or wear down over time. The good news is that when the crown needs to be replaced, you don’t have to go through the entire implant placement process.

Can the Abutment and Metal Post Get Damaged?

It’s very unlikely, but yes, it can happen. The abutment and metal post may suffer damage in cases of trauma. If you receive a direct blow to the jaw, the impact might damage the dental implant and require replacement. 

Severe dental health issues can also affect the metal post and abutment. Patients with advanced gum disease may experience implant failure as the condition affects their gums and even jaw bone health.

However, with the right oral care, you can extend the lifespan of your dental implant.

Interested in Implants? Find Out If They’re Right for You

Dental implants are an excellent tooth replacement option. But is it the best one for you? You can find out if you’re a good candidate for implants by seeing Wauwatosa dentist, Dr. Shaun McCue, for a short consultation. 

To get started, request a visit at McCue Dental Health online, or call us at (414) 456-1091 for a short chat.