Dental implants restore a lost tooth and function just like a natural tooth. I have talked before about dental implants as far as the safety, the benefits and whether they are right for you and you can find more of that information on our website. I want to specifically address how you can ensure the longevity of dental implants. They are strong and stable and, in fact, the next best thing to natural teeth. Dental implants are designed to last and can last a lifetime if they are properly placed and cared for. There aren’t any uncomfortable or embarrassing moments of them loosening or falling out while talking, eating or laughing like with removable dentures.Dental implants allow ease and confidence in any situation. Dental implants go into the jawbone where the missing tooth was, alongside healthy adjacent teeth. The jawbone then supports the implant just like with the natural teeth, thereby strengthening and stimulating bone growth.

Let me be clear. Like any medical device, there is no 100% guarantee on how long they will last or whether adjustments will need to be made. There are many risk factors that impact the survival of dental implants such as patient’s medical history, smoking, periodontal disease, oral hygiene. Basically, it will depend on how well you care for them and your periodontal health. If you follow the care protocol and come in for maintenance there is a much better chance the implants will last. Statistically speaking, more than 90% of implants will still be functional at ten years and I tell patients that the majority can expect the implants to function at a high degree of success for a minimum of five years, but I have seen ten years and longer. While we do not implement a general warranty for dental implants,  I address this topic on a case-by-case basis after careful consideration of the patient and circumstances.