If you’re struggling to make a decision regarding how best to replace your missing teeth, it’s understandable, as there are many options available. After looking at all the factors, it’s likely you’re considering the complexity, cost, and even permanency of each treatment, especially dental implants in Worcester. Considered a superior method of restorative dentistry, you might be surprised how the investment you’ll make will be worth it in the long run. If these are one of the many tooth replacement solutions you are considering, find out how long you can expect them to last.
What Makes Up a Dental Implant?
Dental implants are made up of three different components:
- Implant: Made from titanium, these implant posts look like a screw and are surgically placed into your jawbone. They mimic the natural tooth root and keep the bone stimulated. The reason for titanium is that it successfully fuses to the bone and surrounding tissue, and it is less likely to cause problems for individuals with allergies or sensitivities.
- Abutment: An abutment is a small appliance that is used to connect the implant to the custom-made restoration that sits on top.
- Restoration: Depending on how many teeth you are missing, your customized restoration can be a dental crown, implant bridge, or an implant-retained denture. These are crafted to match the size, shape, and color of your natural teeth, creating a beautifully blended smile.
How Long Can They Last?
As long as you commit to maintaining and properly caring for your dental implants, these tooth replacement restorations can last decades, if not a lifetime. There are several stipulations and criteria that you must adhere to if you want to enjoy them as long as possible, such as:
- Proper oral hygiene habits
- Regular dental checkups and cleanings every six months
While the implant is designed to last as long as a lifetime, the crown will most likely need to be replaced every 10-15 years. The reason is that it is exposed to normal wear and tear, and crowns are not meant to last forever.
It’s also important to remember that the area in which your dental implant lives within your mouth can determine how long it will last. Implants that exist in the back of the mouth may experience more pressure and stress due to daily chewing.
Can Dental Implants Ever Fail?
Although dental implant placement has an extremely high success rate, there are instances in which one can fail. This can happen for a variety of reasons, including:
- Individuals with comprised immune systems have a much harder time healing or fighting off an infection. If the implant cannot properly fuse to the bone during osseointegration, this can lead to failure.
- Smoking is another reason implants can fail, as it weakens the body and prevents proper healing from occurring.
- If an implant is improperly placed, it can experience extreme pressure when used for biting or chewing, resulting in failure.
- Should you avoid practicing good oral hygiene habits, you are putting yourself at risk for gum disease, which can negatively affect your implant and the surrounding teeth.
When comparing the lifespan of other restorative treatments and dental implants, the more cost-effective option is to choose the latter. Dentures and bridges require frequent relining, readjusting, and even replacing, all of which costs more money. With dental implants, you can enjoy a fully restored smile for decades or more. Talk to your dentist about whether they’re right for you and how you can get started on a path to a permanent, functional, and longer-lasting smile.
About the Practice
At Handsman & Haddad Periodontics, P.C., we are specialists in periodontal care. Dr. David Handsman and Dr. Todd Jenny want all patients to feel welcome and comfortable when entering through our doors. Offering various dental implant and oral medicine services, we take pride in assessing the individual needs of each patient. With this superior method of tooth replacement, our team strives to provide transparent information regarding the cost, process, and longevity of your new smile, so that you can feel confident when it comes to making decisions about your oral health. To learn more, contact us at (508) 753-5444.
