Do Dental Implants Last Forever?

Wilson, Greenville, Goldsboro, Rocky Mount, Raleigh & nearby areas

Tue, 05/05/2015

Patients familiar with dental implants know that they are a durable, long-lasting solution for lost and missing teeth. But just how enduring is this restoration option? Our Rocky Mount dentists have decades of experience placing and restoring implants, and they can answer these and other questions.

Unlike most dental restorations, implants actually consist of multiple components made from different materials. The dental implant is a small titanium screw that integrates with bone tissue in the jaw over time. The restoration can be a crown, bridge, or denture that is attached to the implant by means of a connector piece called an abutment.

Dental restorations can be made from a multitude of different materials. In general, Dr. Boles Jr., Dr. Dixon, and Dr. Ham will opt to complete your dental implant with a porcelain crown or other option that matches the natural look or your smile.

So, with the structure and different materials in mind, how long do dental implants last? Titanium is very biocompatible and forms a strong bond with the natural jaw bone, so the implant component itself can last for a patient’s entire life. However, it’s important to maintain your dental hygiene over time in order to preserve the integrity of the implant against issues such as:

  • Gum disease
  • Bone loss
  • Diabetes, which affects oral health as well as other parts of the body

A porcelain crown can last upwards of 10 years. However, the prosthetic tooth will be subject to the same wear-and-tear as your natural teeth, so forces like chewing, grinding, injury, and more can reduce the lifespan of ceramic restorations.

For more information about dental implants in the Rocky Mount area, please contact Boles, Ham, Dixon & Boles online or call 252-291-2892 with your questions.

Dixon Boles & Associates