Today, you can replace your missing teeth on the same day you lose them, thanks to the latest technology in dental implants. Furthermore, dental implants are attached firmly and permanently to your jawbone. But how long will dental implants last?
Factors That Determine the Lifespan of Your Dental Implants
Dental implants are made of a biocompatible metal known as titanium, which bonds to your jawbone so you can replace your missing teeth permanently. So, the average lifespan of a dental implant is between 20 and 30 years. Therefore, if you get dental implants when you’re 50 years old, you will likely have them for the rest of your life, considering that the current life expectancy in the United States is 79 years.
However, many factors can affect the lifespan of your dental implants. You need to take good care of your implants to prolong their lifespan and keep them functioning optimally. You also need to be aware of the factors that can affect the longevity of your dental implants. Here are the most common factors you need to consider.
Overall Oral Health
Dental implants must be taken care of just like your natural teeth, and you must mind your oral health so that the titanium implant can fuse properly with your jawbone and gum. If you have a gum infection, treat it right away. Otherwise, the gum won’t grow around the implant.
Your oral surgeon will also check your jawbone to ensure it has the necessary thickness to support the implant before it’s inserted. If it doesn’t have enough density, they’ll advise you to undergo bone grafting before you can have dental implants.
Lifestyle
Some lifestyle choices will affect your natural teeth and dental implants. For instance, excessive alcohol consumption and tobacco use will shorten your dental implants’ lifespan considerably. The gums around your dental implants are supposed to heal properly to support the implants. But nicotine and alcohol will affect blood circulation and oxygen level in your blood, thus hampering your recovery.
Damage
Sometimes the lifespan of your dental implants may be shortened by circumstances beyond your control. Although the metallic part of the implant is indestructible, the outer crown isn’t. So, your ceramic dental crowns may be damaged or cracked during an accident.
To learn more about dental implants, contact Fort Worth Oral Surgery and schedule an appointment so we can talk about your options.