Dental Advice: How Long Do Dental Implants Last?

According to the American College of Prosthodontists, an estimated 178 million Americans are missing at least one tooth, with 40 million missing all teeth! If you are part of these statistics and are seeking “dental implant solutions near me,” consider Kingsgate Dental in Kirkland, Washington. Dubbed as the gold standard of teeth replacement, dental implants recreate the entire tooth structure, restoring your smile’s beauty and function like you never lost teeth!

Indeed, dental implants are the next best thing to your natural teeth. But how long do they last? Dr. Ann Kelley explains what you can expect from dental implants.

Dental implants are designed to last for life

Dental implants are the most durable tooth replacement available, and it’s all because of their design. A dental implant involves placing a bio-inert titanium post in the jawbone. After four to six months, this fixture fuses with the jawbone to form one biological structure. 

After a successful integration, your implant becomes permanent. No other tooth replacement can last this long. So, when you get an implant, you are investing in a lifetime of good oral health and beauty. 

The crown may not last as long

Once the titanium post fuses with the bone, the implant dentist attaches an abutment to link with the crown or other tooth prosthetic. The crown is made from porcelain, making it long-lasting and appear like natural enamel. 

While the implant post can last a lifetime, the crown won’t. Because of general wear and tear, your crown will last about 15 years before needing replacement. The good news is that a dental crown is significantly cheaper than getting an implant. So, depending on your age, you’ll only need to replace your crown once or twice in your lifetime, which isn’t too significant.

How to ensure your implant lasts long

Like your teeth, you must care for your implants to ensure they remain healthy. Luckily, caring for your implants isn’t any different from maintaining natural teeth. 

Optimal care for implants includes:

• Brushing twice daily
• Flossing at least once every day
• Visiting a dentist at least twice yearly
• Avoiding smoking
• Wearing a nightguard if you brux teeth
• Eating a healthy diet

If you need a permanent solution for tooth loss in Kirkland, WA, book a consultation with Kingsgate Dental. Call (425) 385-0080 or schedule your appointment online. 

Ann Kelley, DDS

Dr. Ann Kelley is a graduate of the Creighton University School of Dentistry in Omaha, Nebraska. She highly values the comfort of her patients, and places the needs of the patient above her convenience. Her dental clinic is built to bring the best and most comfortable dental experience to all her patients. She builds relationships with her patients based on trust and always acts to safeguard this trust.