How Long Do Dental Implants Last?

Losing a tooth — whether due to injury, decay, or disease — can affect not only your ability to eat and speak comfortably but also your confidence in daily life. Fortunately, dental implants offer a dependable and natural-looking solution that restores both function and aesthetics. At Oral and Facial Surgery of the Shoals, we often recommend dental implants for patients seeking a long-term option for tooth restoration.

With proper care, dental implants can often last a lifetime, making them one of the most reliable choices in modern dentistry. Read on to learn more about dental implants. Then, contact us in Sheffield or Florence, AL to schedule a consultation.

A long-lasting tooth replacement solution

Unlike traditional dentures or bridges, dental implants are designed to indefinitely replace both the root and crown of a missing tooth. The titanium post is surgically placed into the jawbone, where it naturally fuses with the bone in a process called osseointegration. Once healed, a custom crown or prosthesis, such as implant-supported dentures, is attached, completing the dental implant process.

Because of their strong foundation and biocompatible materials, implants are exceptionally durable. Most patients can expect their implants to last 20 years or more, with many enjoying lifelong function and aesthetics.

What impacts the lifespan of dental implants?

While dental implants are designed to last for decades, their long-term success can be influenced by several underlying factors. A patient's overall health, especially conditions like diabetes or immune disorders, can affect bone quality and healing. Lifestyle choices, such as smoking or excessive alcohol consumption, may also interfere with the body's ability to integrate the implant with the jawbone.

In addition, the quality of the dental implant surgery plays a major role, which is why our experienced board-certified oral surgeons in Sheffield and Florence, AL use advanced imaging techniques to help ensure proper alignment and stability. Even though dental implants are highly durable, the crown attached to the implant may still need to be replaced over time due to normal wear, as its longevity depends on the health of the surrounding gum and bone tissue.

How can you help your dental implants last?

While some factors affecting implant longevity are beyond your control, there are several proactive steps you can take to help your dental implants last for decades. Consistent care and mindful habits make the difference. To protect your investment and promote long-term success, we suggest that you:

• Brush and floss daily to maintain healthy gums and prevent infection
• Avoid chewing on hard objects like ice, pens, or hard candy that could damage the implant or crown
• Use a night guard if you grind or clench your teeth, especially while sleeping
• Refrain from tobacco use, which significantly increases the risk of implant failure
• Visit your dentist regularly for professional cleanings, exams, and implant monitoring

With these habits in place, your tooth restoration can remain strong, functional, and natural-looking for many years to come.

The benefits of dental implants

In addition to their durability, the benefits of dental implants include a natural appearance, improved chewing ability, jawbone preservation, and no risk of slipping or clicking like dentures. They also help maintain facial structure and prevent bone loss, making them a reliable and healthy long-term solution. While the initial investment and dental implant surgery may require more planning than other options, their success rate and lasting results are considered well worth it for most patients.

Get dental implant surgery in Sheffield or Florence, AL

At Oral and Facial Surgery of the Shoals, our experienced oral surgeons provide precision-based dental implant surgery, offering personalized care at each stage of the dental-implant process. Whether you're replacing a single tooth or securing a full arch, we're here to help restore your smile with lasting results. Contact us today to schedule your consultation in Sheffield or Florence, AL, and learn more about how dental implants can offer you long-lasting stability, function, and confidence.