How Long Will Indianapolis Dental Implants Last?
Dental implants are one of the most innovative designs in modern dentistry. Implants are replacement teeth that are made from titanium and covered with a porcelain crown. There are now more than three million Americans who have dental implants and the number increases by the day. As they become a more popular option to replace teeth, people want to know how long they’ll last.
Last a Lifetime
If you’ve ever had a bridge or crown replaced, you know that most dental restorations don’t last forever. They all have their own reasons for failing at some point. Bridges and crowns often fail because the tooth structure is compromised due to decay. Dentures often need to be replaced when bone loss occurs.
With Indianapolis dental implants, you have no concern about these risks. That means dental implants can last your entire lifetime. They are the most advanced and best options when you need to replace teeth. That’s because they aren’t subject to failure like other dental treatments. That doesn’t mean that they’ll always be perfect, but studies show that implants tend to have a 98% success rate which isn’t too shabby.
To be conservative, dentists often estimate the life of a dental implant to be 25 years. The only reason for this is that there aren’t any long-term studies yet on how they will act in the future.
Start of Dental Implants
Dental implants as we know them have been around for about 50 years. It was 1965 when a Swedish inventor named Per-Ingvar Brånemark put the first dental implant into a mouth. The patient dies in 2006 when he was 75 and wouldn’t you know it; the original implant was still in place. That’s over a 40-year stretch.
Just like your teeth, the longevity and health of your implants are going to rely on your oral health. Implants that are cared for properly with brushing and flossing will last a long time. If you smoke, you are at a higher risk of your dental implants failing. That’s due to the instances of gum disease. Your health factors should also be taken into consideration before having implants placed. If you want to discuss your dental implant options, consult with your dentist.
