How Long Do Dental Implants Last
Ann Arbor, MI
 Dental implants are permanent, artificial teeth that are used to replace one or more damaged or missing teeth. Designed to last anywhere between 20 – 30 years, a dental implant is meant to be a final solution. However, this depends on how a patient takes care of the implant and their overall oral hygiene. Here at Greashaber Dentistry, our dentists Dr. Greashaber and , go the extra mile to make sure your dental implants are comfortable, blend in completely with your natural teeth, and last you a lifetime.
What Are Dental Implants?
A dental implant consists of two main parts. The first is the artificial root. It is made of a strong non-reactive titanium post that resembles a screw. This titanium post is embedded through the gums into the jawbone via a dental surgical procedure. This mimics the role of a natural tooth root to preserve the bone health of the jaw as well as provide strength to the dental implant.
The second part is the dental crown which is cemented on top of the artificial root. Made of a non-reactive ceramic material, this topper is molded and colored to match the other teeth nearby. During the fitting of the crown, the top may be drilled down to ensure a proper bite, so patients do not have issues in the future with chewing. It is important to note that while a patient can have dentures with dental implants, it is generally not advised.
What Damages Dental Implants?
Despite being designed to last up to 30 years, there are several factors that can reduce the lifespan of a dental implant. These are listed below. | • |
The position and placement of the dental implant
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Pre-existing medical conditions that affect the bone health
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Facial injuries
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Chewing hard or sticky foods
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Using dental implant to open plastic packaging or bottles
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Poor oral hygiene by not flossing or brushing properly
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Excessive smoking or drinking |
How to Fix Damaged Dental Implants
When a patient comes in with a damaged dental implant, our dentists do a complete dental exam to determine the best method of implant restoration. If a crown has broken or fallen off, we will examine the area to ensure the titanium post is still fixed in place and there are no signs of infections. In such cases, a new crown can be cemented on top.
However, if there are signs of infection or the artificial root is also damaged, a patient may need a revision dental implant procedure done. This may involve removing the damaged titanium post, waiting for the area to heal, and then implanting a new one. This can be a long and uncomfortable process, so it is always better to take care of a dental implant.
Schedule a Consultation Today
If you have a damaged dental implant or are looking to have one placed, call us at (734) 662-1113 and make an appointment. Here at Greashaber Dentistry, we believe the patient’s dental health comes first, so rest assured we will do what is best for your smile. |
