How Long Do Dental Implants Last?

Are you missing teeth? So are 178 million Americans. In fact, approximately 40 million Americans are missing all of their teeth. Fortunately, having a toothless smile can be a thing of the past due to modern dental restorations, like dental implants in Friendship Heights. They have become a preferred tooth replacement option because of their many benefits, but how long do they last? Continue reading to learn more about the life of dental implants as well as some ways to make the most out of them.

How Long Do Dental Implants Last?

Did you know that dental implants are considered a permanent tooth replacement option? That being said, they aren’t made to last forever. However, they do have a lifespan of 25 years or even the rest of your life if you care for them properly. Here are a few different factors that contribute to the longevity of dental implants:

• Overall health
• Gum health
• Location of implant in the mouth
• Maintenance

How Can You Increase the Lifespan of Your Dental Implants?

The good news is that many of the things that contribute to the health of your dental implants are in your control. Here are just a few ways that you can get the most out of them and make them last:

• Excellent Oral Hygiene: Just because the crown on the end of your dental implant is not susceptible to tooth decay does not mean that you can slack on regular brushing and flossing. Both are necessary in order to keep the surrounding teeth and gum tissue healthy. IF you develop gum disease, you are much more likely to encounter a dental implant failure.
• Proper Use: You have dental implants to help you chew food, hold in saliva, prevent bone loss, and allow you to smile. You should not be using them to pop bottles, open packaging, munch on ice, or bite your nails. You could accidently damage them.
• See Your Dentist: Regular cleanings and checkups are necessary for a healthy smile, especially when you have dental implants. If there is an issue with your implant, they are more likely to catch it early on if you are heading in for routine exams.

Implants have a wide variety of benefits, but you won’t be able to enjoy them for very long if you aren’t caring for them properly. By using the tips above, you may never have to worry about missing teeth ever again!

About the Author

Dr. Yelena Obholz earned her Doctor of Dental surgery from the New York University College of Dentistry and is committed to continuing education in order to keep her knowledge and skills sharp. She is currently enrolled in the prestigious Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies. For more information on dental implants or to schedule a consultation, visit her website or call (202) 364-8209.