If you want a permanent fix to replace missing teeth or fill gaps, a dental implant may just be what you’re looking for. Dental implants provide a natural teeth look and feel with minimal impact on your life after they’ve been installed.
Belmont Dental Surgery offers expert dental services with multiple financing options available. If you’re considering dental implants in Perth, now is your chance to book a FREE initial consultation and smile with confidence.
- Dental implants are a long term solution to missing teeth that require minimal maintenance and replicate your natural teeth’s look and feel.
- Dental implants can come in the form of endosteal implants or subperiosteal implants.
- Implants can last up to 20 years with proper maintenance and care.
- Bad oral hygiene, as well as habits like smoking and drinking alcohol, can reduce how long your dental implant will last.
- If you notice any swelling, discomfort, bleeding or a loose crown from your dental implant, make sure to contact your dentist.
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What are Dental Implants?
Permanent dental implants are a popular solution to replace one or more missing teeth. They are considered to be one of the best long term options for tooth replacement as they don’t require frequent maintenance aside from regular oral hygiene. Most dental implants use a process called osseointegration which involves allowing a metal screw to fuse with your bone to provide a foundation for a crown.
While dental implants are more expensive than other types of tooth replacements like a dental bridge, they are the preferred choice because of their longevity and minimal interference.
How long do Dental Implants Last?
The average lifespan of your dental implants will vary based on how well you take care of them, but you can expect an implant to last up to 15 or 20 years. The root of your dental implants will last the longest, while your crown will need to be changed more frequently (every 5 to 15 years).
The type of dental implant will also affect its lifespan. Compared to endosteal implants, a subperiosteal implant will last between 10 and 15 years since they are not affixed directly to the jawbone when inserted.
What Affects Your Dental Implant’s Lifespan?
There are several factors that can affect your dental implant’s lifespan, including:
- Oral Hygiene
- Smoking and Alcohol Consumption
- Medical Conditions (Diabetes, Osteoporosis, Cardiovascular Diseases)
- Bruxism (Teeth Grinding)
- Quality of Dental Implant
- Implant Placement
Maintaining your oral hygiene is one of the most simple and effective ways of preventing gum disease or your implant failing.
What are Maintenance Tips to Increase Dental Implant Lifespan?
You can increase your dental implant’s lifespan by practising proper and regular dental hygiene, attending regular check-ups with your dentist, and protecting it during high-intensity activities. Take note of the following maintenance tips to ensure your dental implants last as long as possible.
- Practise a Daily Oral Care Routine. Once your dental crown has been inserted, it is critical to follow the post-op instructions outlined by your dentist. Pair this with a consistent daily routine that includes brushing and flossing twice a day, and this will increase the lifespan of your dental implants.
- Attend Regular Dental Check-ups. Check-ins with your dentist every 6 months are essential to ensure your implants can last a lifetime. Your dentist can make adjustments to your crown and take preventive measures if your teeth show signs of disease.
- Protect Your Implants During Sports. If you are involved in high contact sports like rugby, football, or wrestling then it is advised to wear a mouth guard to protect your dental implant. Excessive force can cause dental implant failure and make it difficult to recover from your dental implant surgery.
- Avoid Harmful Habits. Smoking and drinking alcohol can degrade your crown and implant site, leading to a higher chance of implant failure in the long term. Decreasing or outright stopping harmful habits like this will make your dental implant last longer and improve your overall quality of life.
- Take Precautions Against Teeth Grinding. Sometimes patients don’t notice that they grind their teeth, which can wear down the artificial teeth and lead to implant failure. Practising meditation and lowering your caffeine consumption, especially in the evening, can help prevent teeth grinding.
Studies have shown taking considerable care against bad habits like smoking and improving your overall health means a longer lasting smile with a lower risk of dental implant failure.
How can I Tell if my Dental Implants Have Problems
You will be able to tell if your dental implant has problems if you feel pain around the implant. If you notice any of these other characteristics of potential implant failure, book an appointment with your dentist:
- Discomfort
- Inflammation or Swelling
- Bleeding From the Mouth
- Implant Mobility
- Difficulty Chewing
- Difficulty Speaking
- Gum Recession
To minimise your chance of implant failure, you should aim to see your dentist as soon as possible. If you want a reliable and expert team of dentists to provide you with quality dental care, book a free dental implant consultation with us today or phone 08 9277 3837.
How Long Do Tooth Implants Last FAQs
How much do Dental Implants Cost?
You can expect to pay from approx $3,999 for a single dental implant, which includes the implant, abutment, and the crown that sits on top of the implant. This price can differ based on the complexity of the surgery and the material used, but can be decreased by your insurance provider.
Can I get a Dental Implant Multiple Years After Teeth Extraction?
Yes, you can get a dental implant even if your tooth extraction took place 10 years ago. The main requirement to get dental implants is the necessary bone density and mass to allow the screw to fuse with the jawbone.
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