Dental implants can help you feel more confident in your smile (and your ability to eat all of your favorite foods!), so it’s no wonder that so many patients choose them as their tooth replacement. The treatment process can be quite lengthy, though, and you probably don’t want to go through all of that for a prosthetic that will only be good for a year or two. You want to know: how long can you expect these replacements to last?
Rest assured, among their many other benefits, dental implants are also incredibly durable. Keep reading to learn more!
Average Lifespan of Dental Implants
On average, dental implant restorations tend to hold up for 10 to 15 years. That’s about 5 years more than traditional bridges and dentures, which have an average lifespan that’s closer to 5 to 10 years. It’s also worth pointing out that dental implant restorations can withstand more types of food than alternative replacements; all around, they’re capable of enduring much more wear before needing to be repaired or replaced.
Lifespan of Dental Implants that Receive Good Care
Now, if you take good care of your dental implants with proper maintenance, then you can expect them to really go the distance! Their lifespan jumps to 30 years, with many patients reporting they last even longer than that. For all intents and purposes, you could say that a dental implant restoration has the potential to last a lifetime.
How to Help Your New Smile Last
What does it mean to “take good care of your dental implants”? You might be surprised to know this isn’t that different from what a dentist would recommend for natural teeth! Here’s what you can do to help your new smile last longer:
- Brush your teeth twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush
- Floss between your pearly whites at least once per day
- Attend two checkup and cleaning appointments per year
- Avoid bad dental habits like nail-biting, smoking, and using your teeth as tools
Remember that everyone’s oral health is a bit different. Your dentist might have personalized tips for taking the best care of your unique grin, so don’t hesitate to ask them for more advice.
About the Practice
Our three dentists at San Marcos Gentle Dental are committed to providing patients with a positive care experience. When you meet with them to discuss your dental implant treatment in more detail, they’ll listen attentively to your questions and take the time to address each concern. If you’d like more advice on helping your dental implants last for as long as possible, please get in touch by calling our office at 512-396-5225.