If you have missing teeth, then you already know that there are just as many ways to restore teeth as there are to lose them. The most common options for restorative dentistry today are dentures, bridges, and dental implants. Dental implants are very popular because they look so much more natural, and do not come out of your mouth at all. But is the expense worth it? Read on to learn about the lifespan of dental implants.
What Factors Affect the Lifespan of Dental Implants?
A dental implant is a small titanium screw that is implanted into the bone behind your gum. A crown or denture is then attached to the implant. There are many things that affect whether or not this procedure will last for a long time:
Poor placement
An inexperienced dental implants specialist may cause an implant to fail when they do not place the implant correctly. Be sure to choose an experienced dentist in Walnut Creek.
Inadequate bone density
If there is not enough bone density in the jaw below the gum, the implant will not be supported correctly. There may be a way to fix this with a bone graft, but not always.
Bad oral health
If your gums are not healthy, the implant may not take in the long run. Additionally, if the nearby teeth have a lot of wear and tear, they could harm the crown or denture attached to the dental implant.
Lifestyle habits
If you smoke, have untreated diabetes, or do not have a great dedication to oral hygiene, the dental implant can become infected and fail.
If all of these factors do not exist, then you can expect that your dental implants will last at least 10 years. In many ideal cases, patients have seen the lifespan of dental implants go beyond three decades.
Learn More from Your Dentist in Walnut Creek
Want to know more about the lifespan of dental implants, or find out if you are a candidate? Call Pope Dental at our Walnut Creek office at 925-939-4989 or contact us online.
