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A dental implant can effectively last forever, with proper care and ideal conditions. This is especially true for the implant component fused to the jawbone, as it’s designed for lifetime longevity and proven long-term durability. However, the dental crown fixed to the abutment typically needs to be replaced every 10 to 15 years or more if well taken care of.
As opposed to bridges and dentures, dental implants offer a more natural, durable, and functional alternative. At Moorooka Dental Care, we understand how dental implants have changed the way we think about tooth replacement. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the longevity of dental implants in depth to help you consider getting dental implants in Brisbane or not.
Do Dental Implants Last Forever?
Yes, dental implants are designed to last forever. However, dental implants consist of three key components: the titanium screw fused (or osseointegrated) to the jawbone, the abutment connecting the screw and crown, and the crown, which is visible and resembles a natural tooth.
While the titanium screw is designed for lifetime use and the abutment is also quite durable, the dental crown may require replacement. With good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups, a dental crown can last between 10 and 15 years before it needs to be replaced. Therefore, although the dental implant is made to last a lifetime, maintenance like crown replacement is sometimes required to ensure the longevity of the complete dental implant structure.
What Affects How Long a Dental Implant Lasts?
Several factors contribute to the longevity of your dental implant. These include:
- Material: Although the material used in the implant contributes to overall longevity, the most commonly used implants, like titanium and zirconia, are known to be incredibly durable and very rarely need to be repaired or replaced.
- Oral Hygiene: Standard, good dental hygiene habits like brushing twice a day and flossing, as you would for your natural teeth, can extend the lifespan of your dental implant.
- Jawbone Quality: Osseointegration, the process whereby the implant fuses with the jawbone, plays a significant role in implant longevity. If your jawbone is healthy and without issues, dental implant success is guaranteed.
- Regular Dental Check-Ups: Routine dental visits can help identify signs of implant failure early on, while your dentist will also be able to detect other factors that may be causing issues with your implants.
Longevity of Teeth vs. Dental Implants: A Summary of Systematic Review Findings
The table below summarises the key findings on the longevity of teeth and dental implants, including loss rates and bone level changes.
| Criteria/Topic | Teeth | Dental Implants |
| Number of Studies Considered | 70 identified, 11 met criteria | 52 identified, 9 met criteria |
| Number of Subjects | 3,015 | 476 |
| Follow-up Duration | 10 to 30 years | 10 to 30 years |
| Incidence of Loss (Majority of Studies) | 1.3–5% | 1–18% |
| Incidence of Loss (Epidemiological Study) | 14–20% (rural Chinese populations) | N/A |
| Comparison with Dental Implants | Lower loss rate in well-maintained patients | N/A |
| Bone Level Changes | Low in well-maintained patients | Low in well-maintained patients |
Both dental implants and natural teeth have relatively low loss rates over a long period (10 to 30 years) when well maintained. While the dental implant component fused to the jawbone is designed for lifetime longevity, the systematic review shows that the loss rate for dental implants can vary between 1% and 18% over a 10- to 30-year period.
(The data in the above table were sourced from “Longevity of teeth and implants – a systematic review”, by C. Tomasi, J. L. Wennström, and T. Berglundh, published on PubMed, DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2842.2007.01831.x)
How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Dental Implant?
The cost of replacing the entire dental implant can be quite high, depending on the dental clinic, the location of the dental implant, and the need for additional procedures like bone grafts. However, considering that dental implants are designed to last a long time, it is usually a one-time investment and patients rarely need to replace all the components simultaneously.
Typically, you only need to replace the dental crown and abutment. In Australia, replacing both the abutment and dental crown costs from $2,000 to $5,000.
Risk of Dental Implant Failure
While it is possible for a dental implant to fail, adhering to good dental hygiene habits, similar to what your natural teeth need, and following the advice of your dentist or dental practitioner can ensure your implants last for years, if not decades.
Causes of Implant Failure
Dental implant failure, although rare, is a concern that prospective implant recipients often have. Understanding the potential reasons behind implant failure can help in preventing such an occurrence. Here are some contributing factors:
Poor Oral Hygiene
Inadequate dental hygiene habits such as not brushing twice a day or failing to floss can lead to plaque build-up around the implant site. This can cause gum disease, which is a leading contributor to implant failure.
Gum Disease
Gum disease can cause inflammation and degradation of the gum and jawbone where the implant is anchored. This weakens the site and may cause the implant to become loose or even fall out.
Teeth Grinding
People who grind their teeth exert excessive force on their dental implants. Over time, this can weaken the implant structure, cause implant failure, and negatively affect the natural teeth surrounding the implant.
Smoking and Alcohol Consumption
Smoking restricts blood flow to the gums, affecting the healing process post-dental implant surgery, while drinking excessive amounts of alcohol can also interfere with healing.
Infection
Post-surgical infections, although rare, can occur if the implant site is not properly cared for. This can lead to complications and possible implant failure.
Recognising and mitigating these factors can significantly reduce the risk of implant failure. Regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene can significantly extend the lifespan of your dental implant.
Conclusion
So, how long do dental implants last? The answer may not always be straightforward, and an accurate answer will depend on several factors such as the material used, the implant site, and the oral health of the patient. While not everlasting, with proper care and routine dental check-ups, dental implants are a reliable, long-lasting solution for missing teeth that could very well last you a lifetime.
