How Long Do Dental Implants Last?

Dental implants are the gold standard when it comes to tooth replacement. They function and look like a real tooth and will enhance one’s quality of life. 

Advanced Mini Dental Implants are dramatically less expensive.  There is no denying, however, that conventional dental implants are quite an investment. Conventional dental implants come with a cost that leads most patients to question they’re cost.

How Long Do Dental Implants Last? 

Advanced Mini Dental implants are 1 piece while conventional dental implants have different parts. Advanced Mini Dental implant posts are placed comfortably without cutting the gums, and without making a large hole in the jaw bone which is necessary for conventional implants.  Advanced Mini Dental Implants only need a very thin and short hole made in the jaw bone and a needle piercing of the gum.   While most Advanced Mini Dental Implants have the crowns, dentures or roundhouses placed immediately, conventional implants require being left to fuse with the bone for 3-4 months or more. Since Advanced Mini Dental Implants are 1 piece there is no need for an abutment but conventional implants require things being attached by a screw which can break or loosen and is tasked with holding the dental crown in place. 

On average, implants can last about 25 years or longer whether Advanced Mini Dental Implants or conventional implants. For many patients, it lasts a lifetime.

There are a few factors that will negatively impact the longevity of your dental implants. All of the following can cause them to require replacement sooner than they should. 

• Poor oral hygiene and not getting a regular 6 month cleaning at your dental office
• Not brushing, flossing and using a waterpik before going to sleep
• Medical conditions, such as diabetes, as well as certain medications
• Smoking 
• Bruxism (teeth grinding, jaw clenching)
• Having poor bone quality

Properly Caring For Your Dental Implants

Without the proper care, you risk decay, gum disease, and bacteria disrupting your oral health. To extend the life of your dental implants, you should be: 

Brushing and Flossing. Brushing, flossing and waterpiking your teeth, crowns, dentures and roundhouses a minimum of two times per day is vital.  The most important and critical time is before you go to bed.  This way you are cleaning off all the food from the day and the bacteria that love to harm our teeth and gums while we sleep.  A waterpik is very effective, especially since it makes it easy to thoroughly clean around your implant and under your crowns. 

Routine Dental Visits. Having a professional cleaning every 6 months is the best way to keep a healthy mouth, catching any issues before they get out of hand. What’s more, it removes any buildup that you may miss during your regular hygiene routine. 

Rid Yourself of Bad Habits. Bad habits need to be dismissed when you are caring for dental implants as well as your natural teeth. That means stop smoking/vaping, nail-biting, grinding your teeth, chewing on pen caps, etc.

The better you care for your dental implants and your natural teeth, the longer they will last you. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Does insurance cover the cost of dental implants? 

While it will depend on the policy, dental insurance will often cover a percentage of the cost of dental implants. Be sure to check your policy for specific coverage or ask our administrative staff. 

What is the alternative to dental implants? 

Dental bridges, partials, and dentures that don’t snap-on and lock in place, can all be used in place of dental implants. However, without implants none can compete when it comes to their level of functionality and longevity. 

Learn More About Dental Implants at Fine Dental Care

Dr. Bruce Fine of Fine Dental Care has been treating patients with dental implants since 1989. That is decades' worth of experience in precisely placing these natural tooth alternatives. He also has patients coming from around the world as well as other doctors, dentists, dental hygienists and dental assistants from other offices.

Implant consultations are FREE and include a FREE 3D X-ray.

If you have any questions or want a FREE consultation, contact us today at 973-633-5440. Or, request an appointment online.