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How Long do Dental Implants Last?

Dental implants are a modern alternative to the traditional tooth replacement options of bridges and dentures, and one that we offer at Nancy Shiba, DDS. They are the most popular option available and provide numerous benefits over traditional treatments. They look, feel, and function just like natural teeth. They are much more comfortable. They are also designed to put a stop to, and prevent, the bone loss that follows tooth loss, which helps to preserve the strength of your jawbone. They are designed to be a long-term solution, but just how long do dental implants last?

Components of Dental Implants

Dental implants consist of three basic components.

•	The titanium posts. The actual implant itself is a small titanium post. These posts are surgically implanted into your jawbone. Your natural jawbone fuses to the posts as you heal, stabilizing them and integrating them into your mouth. They essentially become the roots that are then used to support your replacement teeth.
•	The abutments. The abutments are connectors that are placed on the exposed ends of your dental implants after you have healed. The abutments provide stability for your replacement teeth.
•	The ceramic crowns. Your replacement teeth are ceramic crowns. They replace the visible portions of your missing teeth. Ceramic is fairly strong. It also mimics many of the properties of natural enamel, including its color and the way in which it reflects light. This aids in providing a perfectly natural, seamless restoration that restores the functions and appearance of your smile.

Designed as a Permanent Solution for Tooth Loss

Dental implants are meant to be a permanent solution for tooth loss and are meant to last a lifetime. As you heal from surgery, your bone fuses to the posts in a process known as osseointegration. Your bone stabilizes them and holds them securely in place. The posts function just like your natural tooth roots. When you chew, the posts stimulate your jaw, just like your real teeth. This stimulation then triggers the body to send the necessary nutrients your jaw requires to remain strong and healthy. With proper nutrients, the bone loss that follows tooth loss is stopped and prevented, aiding in maintaining the integrity and shape of your jaw. While the ceramic crowns are rated to last 10 to 15 years, it is possible for them to last longer. If they do become damaged, the crowns can easily be replaced without the need for replacing the posts.

Factors that Affect the Lifespan of Dental Implants

While dental implants are designed to last a lifetime, there are certain factors that can affect how long they last, and can even result in complete implant failure.

•	Medical conditions, such as diabetes or cancer. These conditions can increase the risk of failure.
•	Implant location. Implants that are placed at the back of your jaw are subject to more excessive pressure. This pressure can wear away your bone.
•	Alignment issues. If your jaw or your remaining teeth are not properly aligned, this can cause excessive pressure on the implants that can harm your jawbone.
•	Oral or facial trauma. Injuries to your mouth or face can affect your jawbone, and can also affect the stability of your implants.
•	Oral health issues. If you develop gum disease, and you do not get it treated, the bacteria that collects below your gum line can weaken your jawbone, compromising your implants.

Dental implants are a popular option for replacing missing teeth that are meant to provide you with a permanent solution. For more information, and to find out if dental implants are right for you, call Nancy Shiba, DDS today at (669) 306-7669.

Our Office
In San Jose

Nancy Shiba, DDS

125 N Jackson Ave, Suite 103, San Jose, CA 95116-1903

Phone

(669) 306-7669

Hours

Mon: 9AM–6PM
Tue: by appointment
Wed: 9AM–6PM
Thur: 9AM–3PM
Friday: 8AM–5PM
Sat & Sun: Closed

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How Long Do Dental Implants Last?
Nancy Shiba, DDS, 125 N Jackson Ave, Suite 103, San Jose, CA 95116-1914 ^ (669) 306-7669 ^ nancyshibadds.com ^ 11/28/2024