How Long Do Dental Implants Typically Last?

Dental implants are unequivocally among the most effective solutions for restoring countless aspects of a patient's oral health — from their jaw structure to the aesthetics of their smile. With dental implants and implant-based restorations, it is possible to replace a single tooth or an entire arch of teeth, helping patients regain their ability to eat, chew, laugh, and more with confidence. At Riley Dental in Haslet, TX, Dr. Luke Riley and our dedicated team are proud to help patients look and feel their best once again with advanced implant dentistry. For many patients considering dental implants, one of the first questions they ask is how long their dental implants may last. Here, you'll find the answer to many dental implant FAQs — including how long dental implants can last — to help you better understand whether dental implants and restorations may be right for you.

What are dental implants?

A common mistake when talking about dental implants is referring to the artificial tooth as the implant. Instead, the dental implant is actually the metal screw that is implanted beneath the gumline, onto which a dental restoration — like a crown, bridge, or dentures — can be attached to function and look like a natural tooth.

When are dental implants recommended?

Whenever possible, it is ideal to try and save a patient's natural tooth. However, when a tooth must be extracted or is lost as a result of trauma or injury, a dental implant may be recommended. Not only can the implant and restoration restore a more complete and beautiful smile aesthetically, but it also replaces the natural tooth root to help preserve the patient's jawbone and overall facial structure. Some of the most common reasons for placing dental implants include:

• Missing adult tooth due to genetic abnormality
• Lost tooth due to trauma
• Adult tooth was knocked out
• Severe tooth decay or damage
• Patient desires a more lasting alternative to removable dentures

Do dental implants last forever?

The dental implant itself — meaning the titanium screw that is surgically inserted into the patient's jawbone and integrates with the bone — is designed to last a lifetime with proper care and maintenance. In rare cases, a dental implant may fail or become loose, which could be due to trauma, injury, incomplete integration with the jawbone, smoking, and underlying health conditions. In most cases, however, patients can retain their dental implant for the rest of their lives, though the attached restoration — whether it be a crown, bridge, or implant-supported dentures — may need repair or replacement at some point. Still, many patients enjoy their implant-supported crowns and restorations for up to 30 years. To preserve your smile and oral health with dental implants, it is important to adhere to a dedicated dental hygiene regimen, visit the dentist for dental exams and cleanings regularly, avoid smoking, and stick to a healthy diet and lifestyle habits overall.

Enjoy a lifetime of a strong, healthy, beautiful smile you can count on with dental implants in Haslet, TX

With dental implants, patients can free themselves from the worry of loose dentures and the self-consciousness associated with an incomplete smile. If you're interested in learning more about the life-changing benefits of dental implants and live near North Richland Hills or Fort Worth, TX, call Riley Dental in Haslet, TX to schedule a consultation with Dr. Luke Riley and our caring team today.