Do Dental Implants Last Forever?

What Is A Dental Implant?

A dental implant is a structure that can replace a missing tooth. The implant itself is a titanium post screwed into the jawbone which acts as an artificial tooth root. This provides a strong foundation for the crown (a prosthetic tooth) that is made to match your already existing teeth. There are many advantages to dental implants which includes:

• Improve appearance
• Improved speech
• Improved comfort
• Easier eating
• Improved oral health

To learn more about the benefits of dental implants and how they can improve your quality of life, read How Dental Implants Help Preserve The Quality Of Your Life.

How Long Do Dental Implants Last?

Dental implants are intended to be permanent. The titanium screw fuses to your jawbone as it heals becoming bonded with surrounding bone tissue through a process called osseointegration. Because of this, the implant serves as an artificial tooth root, forming a solid foundation for the crown. While the implant itself is designed to be permanent, the crown may need replacement every 15-20 years due to regular wear and tear. With proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime.

How To Care For Dental Implants

The better you take care of your dental implant, the longer it will last. Here are some steps you can take to ensure the longevity of your dental implant:

• Brush your teeth twice a day. Take care of your oral health by brushing your teeth for at least two minutes twice per day using a non-abrasive toothpaste and a soft toothbrush. Hard toothbrushes can wear away the crown on your dental implant making it more likely that you will require a crown replacement in the future. Also, don’t forget to floss each time you brush your teeth!
• Do not skip dental appointments. The Canadian Association of Dentistry recommends that you visit the dentist every six months. Visiting the dentist for an exam and cleaning will ensure your oral health is in check and that your dental implant and crown are in good condition. Putting off a dental appointment will put you at risk for oral health concerns such as tooth decay and gum disease which require more invasive and more expensive treatments. 
• Watch what you chew. Avoid sticky gums, candies, and hard foods that could potentially dislodge the crown from your dental implant. For dental implants near the front of your mouth, be careful of oral habits such as chewing nails or using your teeth to open things. This could cause your crown to chip, requiring a replacement.
• Look after your gums. The tissue surrounding the dental implant can be prone to inflammation. Consider using a water irrigator once per day to keep bacteria and food plaque under control. To help with inflammation, you can also rinse your mouth out with water every time you eat or drink something other than water. 

Denture Implants Future Smiles Calgary

If your dentist has recommended a denture implant or to explore your candidacy for denture implants, visit the knowledgeable and experienced staff at Future Smiles Denture Clinic in Calgary. Our team can answer all of your questions and can provide you with denture adjustments, relines, and rebases. Whether you have partial dentures or complete dentures, or if you are just starting your denture journey, Future Smiles Denture Clinic can help you understand your oral health while providing you with a healthy and beautiful smile. 

To speak with the team at Future Smiles Denture Clinic in Calgary, you can visit the SW Calgary Denture clinic on Macleod or the NE Calgary location in Coral Springs. To book a free consultation with our Calgary Denturist, call 1-403-475-0016 or fill out the online contact form.

FAQ

Q: How long is the recovery for denture implants?
A: The full recovery process for denture implants can take up to 8 months.

Q: Is denture implant surgery painful?
A: After your denture implant surgery, you may feel some discomfort during the first couple of weeks. Your denturist will provide you with a detailed recovery plan as well as instructions on how to care for your oral health as you heal. 

Q: I’m looking for affordable denture solutions. What options do I have?
A: At Future Smiles Dentures Clinic, we know that Calgarians are looking for low-cost, stress-free denture payment plans. This is why we offer affordable denture solutions, including direct billing and financing.