One of the biggest reasons people choose dental implants over a bridge or denture is longevity. The titanium post that replaces the tooth root is designed to fuse permanently with the jawbone, and once that process, called osseointegration, is complete, the implant itself typically lasts a lifetime.
The crown attached on top does have a more limited lifespan, usually somewhere between fifteen and twenty five years depending on the material used and how well it is cared for. Because the crown can be replaced without disturbing the implant underneath, a worn crown does not mean you need a whole new implant, just a new restoration on top of the same secure foundation.
The biggest factor in how long an implant lasts is oral hygiene. Brushing twice a day, flossing or using a water flosser around the implant, and keeping up with regular cleanings all help prevent a condition called peri implantitis, which is essentially gum disease around an implant and the leading cause of implant failure. Grinding your teeth at night and smoking can also shorten an implant's lifespan considerably.
Routine checkups let your dentist catch small issues, like early bone loss or a loose crown, before they become bigger problems. At Oasis Dental in Aurora, we build a maintenance plan into every implant case so your investment keeps working for you long term. Call (720) 680-2688 or schedule online to talk with our team about implants.