Are dental implants permanent? This question is crucial for anyone looking to restore their smile and maintain long-term oral health. Dental implants have gained immense popularity due to their natural appearance and functionality, often seen as a lasting solution for missing teeth. However, it is important to understand that the permanence of dental implants involves more than just their physical presence; it involves factors such as proper placement, ongoing care, and individual health conditions.
This blog will look into what makes dental implants a favored choice among dental professionals and patients, explore their expected lifespan, and discuss the necessary steps to ensure their longevity.
Permanent dental implants are advanced dental prosthetics that replace missing teeth and offer a long-lasting solution to people who want to restore their smile and oral function. They can be taken out easily and may require replacement over time. These implants require surgery to be placed into the jawbone to offer a stable and secure foundation for artificial teeth.
Permanent dental implants seem to last a lifetime with proper care and maintenance. On average, studies indicate that over 95% of dental implants remain functional for at least 10 years, with many lasting 20 years or longer. However, the crowns placed on the implants may ask for a replacement every 10 to 15 years due to normal wear and tear. Regular dental check-ups are equally important for monitoring their condition.
The cost of permanent dental implants in Mobile, AL, can vary significantly based on several factors, including the complexity of the case and the specific materials used. Generally, the price per implant ranges from $1,000 to $3,000. However, this estimate does not include additional costs for related procedures, such as bone grafting or the custom crown that sits atop the implant.
For comprehensive treatments involving multiple implants, the total expense can exceed $30,000. Some dental clinics provide financing options or payment plans to help manage these costs. Additionally, dental insurance might cover part of the expenses, depending on the specific policy.
Brush your permanent dental implants twice daily using a soft-bristled toothbrush. Floss daily to avoid collection of food particles and plaque, focusing on the area around the implant. Special implant floss or floss threaders can help you reach difficult spots.
Include interdental brushes and water flossers into your routine. These tools help in removing plaque around implants without harming gum tissue. Follow your dentist's advice on the best tools for your specific needs.
Choose non-abrasive toothpaste to avoid scratching the implant's surface. Alcohol-free mouth rinses are recommended to prevent irritation of the gums. You can also use mouthwashes formulated for oral care to reduce bacteria and promote gum health.
Schedule regular dental check-ups for professional cleanings every six months or as recommended by your dentist. These cleanings help in removing plaque and tartar buildup that home care might miss.
Permanent dental implants can fail, although this is relatively uncommon when proper care and maintenance are followed. There are various factors that contribute to implant failure, including:
One of the most common causes of implant failure is peri-implantitis, an inflammatory condition caused by bacteria that affects the gum and bone around the implant. This can cause bone loss and eventual failure of the implant if not treated promptly.
For a dental implant to be successful, it must integrate properly with the jawbone through a process called osseointegration. If the bone does not bond with the implant adequately—possibly due to insufficient bone density or quality—this can result in failure.
Excessive pressure on the implant can stress the implant and surrounding bone, potentially leading to failure.
Certain health issues, such as uncontrolled diabetes, osteoporosis, or autoimmune diseases, can negatively impact the body's ability to heal and integrate the implant.
Those who consume tobacco have a higher failure rate of dental implants due to its adverse effects on healing and blood flow to the gums.
If you want to learn more about dental implants or want to book an appointment, contact Springhill Dental Health Center in Mobile, AL. New patients can call (251) 265-7808, while all other callers can reach us at (251) 343-1521.
Dental implants give a permanent solution for tooth loss, but their longevity depends on proper oral hygiene and regular dental visits.
Regular dental check-ups are recommended at least twice every year, but your dentist may ask for more frequent visits based on your individual needs.
It takes about 3 to 6 months to fully heal and resume normal activities.
Our expert team is dedicated to helping you regain your smile and enjoy the benefits of a complete, healthy set of teeth. Trust us to deliver the care and precision needed for a successful dental implant experience, and take the first step toward revitalizing your oral health today.
My visit was incredible. I had my “All on Four” appliances cleaned, and it was a painless and thorough experience. Dr. Scott and all his staff are very friendly. During the cleaning, Mary was gentle and let me know everything she was doing and how it would feel. She gave me tips on how to clean my implants/appliances better and gave me a small brush to do the underside more effectively. Dr. Scott and Mary suggest cleanings take place every 3 months so I will be back in December.
Dr. Byron Scott is a highly-trained and accomplished dentist. He attended The University of Alabama School of Dentistry and subsequently completed numerous Advanced Studies and Trainings. Dr. Scott is Board-Certified by The Academy of General Dentistry and has earned Mastership status (MAGD), an honor shared by only 1% of dentists. He has numerous memberships and associations, including Diplomate status with The American Board of Oral Implantology (D-ABOI) and The International Congress of Oral Implantologists (D-ICOI). Overall, Dr. Scott has dedicated his life and career to helping patients improve their oral health through expert dentistry. His goal is to help each patient keep their smile healthy, attractive, and comfortable for the duration of their lifetime.
