What Are Permanent Dental Implants and How Long Do They Last?

Permanent dental implants can be a reliable long-term solution for missing teeth. They offer superior strength and a seamless look, mimicking the look of natural teeth while restoring your ability to eat and speak. Plus, with proper care and maintenance, they can last for life. This article explains the lifespan of dental implants to help you understand your options.  
 
To learn more about how dental implants can restore your smile, schedule a free consultation with a ClearChoice expert today.

What Are Permanent Dental Implants?   

Permanent dental implants are long-term dental solutions surgically installed into your jawbone to mimic the look, feel, and functionality of natural teeth. They consist of these components:  
  

• Implant: A titanium post that attaches and fuses to your jawbone, supporting the rest of the implant.  
  
  

• Crown: A custom-made, tooth-shaped piece placed on top of the implant to mimic a natural tooth.  
    

The dentist removes a small portion of the site’s jawbone, then places the implant in that space. The implant fuses to the jawbone over several via osseointegration, a gradual process where the jawbone regenerates tissue and grows around the implant. The result is a direct biological connection to the implant, offering high stability, strength, and longevity.  

How Long Do Permanent Dental Implants Last? 

With proper maintenance and care, permanent dental implants can last a lifetime. This is especially true because the components, made of metal and other artificial materials, do not decay. Furthermore, titanium is highly durable, offering strength and stability for years to come. Here are some tips to ensure their longevity: 

•  Follow good oral health habits: Brushing, flossing, and rinsing protect surrounding teeth and gums, helping keep the implant secure and healthy.  
  
  

• Avoid tobacco: Smoking and other tobacco products may compromise overall oral health, potentially impacting your implant.   
  
  

• Wear mouthguards if needed: A nighttime mouthguard can protect your implant from wear caused by teeth grinding (bruxism). Meanwhile, a daytime mouthguard can keep it safe if you participate in activities that could cause facial trauma, like contact sports.  
  
  

• Visit your dentist regularly: Dental visits let your dentist check on your implant and catch any issues early, when simpler and cheaper to fix.  

Dental Implants vs. Other Tooth Replacement

You have a few alternatives if you don’t opt for permanent dental implants:  

Dentures  

Dentures are removable dental solutions that replace missing teeth, restoring your smile’s look and function. There are two kinds of dentures:  

• Full dentures: These replace a full arch (upper or lower teeth). If you have remaining teeth on the arch, they may be extracted for full dentures.  
  
  

• Partial dentures: These replace some teeth. They can work well if many of your teeth remain.  
    

Dentures are less stable than implants, need special adhesives to stay attached, and require some additional maintenance. They also don’t preserve jawbone health to the same degree since they aren’t anchored to the implant and may require adjustments. However, getting dentures is quicker, simpler, and less expensive than dental implants. They require impressions and fittings, but no surgical procedures, and can take weeks instead of months.  

Dental Bridges

Dental bridges replace missing teeth using existing teeth as support. The supporting tooth or teeth have some enamel removed, then a cap is placed over them. This cap is attached to the artificial teeth that replace the missing teeth. Several types exist:  

• Traditional: This is the most common type. Each end has a cap that goes over natural teeth, with artificial teeth in between. The natural teeth support the artificial teeth.  
  
  

• Maryland: This type uses metal wings instead of crowns to support the bridge. The dentist bonds these to the backs of the support teeth. Maryland bridges are weaker, so they are often used for front teeth.  
    

Bridges can be simpler and less expensive than implants. However, they require altering healthy teeth, usually by removing some enamel. They also offer less jawbone stimulation than implants, doing less to maintain jawbone health.  

Should I Get Permanent Dental Implants?  

Permanent dental implants can be an excellent way to replace missing teeth, but they are not for everyone. Here’s how to tell if you could be a good candidate for dental implants:  
  

• Missing teeth: Implants replace missing or severely damaged or decayed teeth that other procedures can’t fix. ClearChoice does not recommend replacing healthy teeth with implants. Other procedures exist to fix minor problems, like discoloration, for healthy teeth.  
  
  

• Jawbone health and strength: You must have sufficient jawbone density to support the implant. Subperiosteal doesn’t require as much strength, but there is still a threshold.  
  
  

• Gum health: Gum tissue should be healthy to ensure the implant heals properly and maintains stability.  
  
  

• Overall health: Good overall health helps the healing process. Certain health conditions, like diabetes or autoimmune disorders, may preclude some patients from implants.  

Find Out If Permanent Dental Implants Are Right for You  

Permanent dental implants offer a strong, long-lasting solution for replacing missing teeth and restoring a seamless smile. The best way to determine if dental implants are right for you is to speak with a dental professional. Contact your local ClearChoice Dental Implant Center to learn more about dental implants and see if you’re a good candidate for them.  
  

Permanent Dental Implants FAQS  

What maintenance is required for permanent dental implants?  

Permanent dental implants do not decay, but they still require brushing, flossing, and​ rinsing to protect the surrounding tissues. Furthermore, regular dental visits are crucial for thorough cleanings and to check on the implant’s overall condition. Finally, reduce, quit, or avoid tobacco use as much as possible. Address any dental issues, such as potential gum disease, promptly.  
 

Can plaque grow on permanent dental implants?  

Yes, plaque can grow on permanent implants. The implants won’t decay, but the plaque and bacteria could infect the gum tissue and lead to gum disease or peri-implantitis (infection around the implant). Brushing, flossing, rinsing, and regular dental visits can help keep dental implants clean and make them last a lifetime.  
  

Can permanent dental implants get cavities?  

No, permanent dental implants can’t get cavities since they are made of ceramics and titanium. However, bacteria and plaque can still impact natural tissue, such as the gums and surrounding teeth. Furthermore, dental implants can suffer chips, cracks, damage, or loosening through facial trauma or excessive pressure. Avoid chewing ice and be careful with hard foods. Wear a mouthguard at night to prevent bruxism and during the day if you participate in activities like contact sports.  
  

How much do permanent dental implants cost?  

The cost of permanent dental implants can vary based on factors such as the material used and the number of implants needed. Speak with a ClearChoice expert to learn more. 

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