It’s no surprise that your lifestyle impacts how long dental implants last. When your actions affect natural teeth, the same applies to artificial ones. Still, did you know a dental implant’s materials also affect its lifespan? Depending on the post’s parts and their makeup, your treatment could last more or less time than usual. Your Pensacola dentists will gladly tell you more if you’d like. So, here’s a primer on how an implant’s materials affect how long it works.
Context: Dental Implants Often Last Decades
Before you get into the nitty-gritty, there’s another question you should ask: how long do implants last in general? Its answer offers context on how materials affect implant lifespan.
A “normal” dental implant lasts about 15 to 20 years. To that extent, its lifespan will exceed those of dentures or dental bridges (i.e., 5-7 years.) That said, dental implants can last even longer with proper care. A well-maintained one will often last or work for 30 years or more!
Of course, various factors will affect how long your dental implants last. These include your oral hygiene habits, diet, the treating dentist’s expertise, etc.
Implant Materials Can (and Do) Affect Lifespan
One lesser-known thing that affects a dental implant’s lifespan is its materials. Since the post has different parts, its components can often vary in quality.
Dental implants generally consist of three main parts:
- Implant Fixture/Post – Every dental implant has a metal post for its base. This component is often made of titanium but can also use durable and longer-lasting zirconia.
- Implant Abutment – The abutment is a metal connector that attaches a prosthetic to the implant fixture. Like a fixture, it can made from traditional titanium or wear-resistant zirconia.
- Prosthetic/Crown – An implant’s prosthetic is the part that matches the color, shape, and size of surrounding teeth. It can either be made from durable porcelain or less sturdy acrylic.
Many dentists offer several options for a dental implant’s materials. Given that fact, please consult your dental provider about possible choices.
Tips on Making Dental Implants Last
Whatever their materials, you can take steps to help your dental implants last longer. Some of the best ones include:
- Practice Good Oral Hygiene – If you brush twice daily and floss once daily, you’ll reduce your risk of gum disease that causes implant failure.
- Avoid Bad Mouth Habits – Certain mouth habits can cause dental implants to fail early. In particular, smoking, using teeth as tools, and biting hard objects could ruin your new teeth.
- See Your Dentist Often – As best you can, attend dental checkups and cleanings every six months. These visits let your dentist diagnose and treat issues that threaten your implants.
While a dental implant’s materials affect its lifespan, your decisions do, too. Make sure to look after your restorations once you get them!
About the Practice
Patriot Dental is based in Pensacola, FL. Led by Drs. Lisonbee and Henry, our practice is proud to serve Pensacola residents with top-tier dental care! You can always trust us for preventive, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry that addresses your smile’s needs. With that said, please see us – we’ll ensure your teeth and gums thrive for a lifetime! For more details or to book a visit, please contact us on our website or by phone at (850)-477-1120.