Dental implants are now one of the most popular and effective ways to replace anything from a single missing tooth to an entire set of teeth. They are suitable for almost everybody and are often marketed as a permanent solution. One common question from patients is whether or not such claims are true. In this article, we take a closer look to help answer the question of how long dental implants last for.
Why have dental implant treatment?
When it comes to missing teeth, for many people the main concern is the visual effect. People tend to lose their confidence and become very self-conscious when they have visible gaps, and this can have an impact on many different areas of life – from not wishing to participate in family photos to avoiding social occasions with friends and colleagues. It can also put people off applying for promotions and new jobs.
In addition, there are very good dental reasons to replace missing teeth. If a gap is left for a long time, there is no natural stimulation of the jaw and gradually the bone in the jaw around the gap begins to sink away – something known as bone loss. This can weaken the jaw and put other teeth at risk of moving or failing. It can also cause the appearance of early aging.
How does a dental implant work?
Although a dental implant itself is technically only a replacement root, the term ‘dental implant treatment’ is generally used to describe the entire process of replacing a missing tooth or teeth.
The dental implant is a substitute for the missing root and forms the foundation upon which a new tooth can be mounted. It is essentially a small screw which is made from titanium. Titanium is used because it is biocompatible, which means it is able to bond with the bone. Once fully fused, this makes it as strong as an original root, which gives maximum stability to the replacement tooth and also helps to restore strength in the jaw.
A crown is used to replace the visible part of the tooth. This is an artificial tooth that is specially made to be the same shape and colour as your existing teeth, allowing it to blend in perfectly with your other teeth.
Finally, there is a component known as an abutment, which is used to connect the crown and the implant together.
How long do dental implants last?
As we’ve seen in the previous section, a dental implant replaces the actual root and not just the visible part of the tooth. Because of this, the treatment is much different to normal crowns and bridges and can be expected to last much longer.
Every patient, however is unique and it is important to be aware that there are many factors that affect how long dental implants last. Firstly, the quality of the components and the standard of dentistry is of the utmost importance. Here at Perfect Pearls, we have over 18 years’ experience in affordable, high-quality dental implant treatment and have many satisfied patients.
Another important factor which will determine how long your dental implants last is the bone they are fitted to. This is why it is so important that a comprehensive examination by an experienced implantologist is conducted prior to treatment, who can arrange for additional dental work to be done beforehand if needed.
Finally, the lifespan of your dental implants depends on how well you look after them. You should look after your new replacement teeth just like would your natural teeth. The better you care for them, the longer they will last. With a good oral hygiene regime and regular dental check ups, you can expect your dental implants to last for as long as your other teeth, and often a lifetime.
Here at Perfect Pearls Dental Implant Centre, we offer the very highest standards in dental implant treatment at some of the best prices available in the UK. To find out more and book a consultation call today on Wolverhampton 01902 500823, view more options online.
