Get Your Smile Back with Implant Dentistry! Find out How Long Implants Last

People who live in Bardstown, Kentucky, looking for tooth replacement options, may want to explore the idea of dental implants. For long-term tooth replacement, dental implants are an excellent option. 

Over the last 20 years, dental implant technology has advanced to the point where implant failure is extremely rare. Let’s learn more about how dental implants work and how long you can expect them to last. 

What Are Dental Implants Made Of?

The reason dental implants are long-lasting has to do with the materials used to make them. 

• Implant: Titanium screws are surgically placed into a patient’s jawbone. This screw, or post, serves as the root that supports the crown of the tooth.
• Abutment: Abutments can be Titanium or Zirconia. Abutments attach to they implant with a screw. Abutments are the supporting structure for the crown.
• Crown: Dental crowns are ceramic teeth that are cemented over the abutment. The crown gives you the look and function of your natural teeth.

Generally, abutments and crowns absorb the wear and tear of the chewing, which may give them a shorter life span than the implant themselves. 

How Long Do Implants Last in Bardstown, Kentucky?

The implant screw can last your entire life when you practice good oral hygiene. To ensure your implants are in good shape, you should visit your dentist every six months for checkups. 

The dental crown will need to be replaced every 10-15 years because it will experience wear and tear. In rare cases, patients may have crowns that last longer than 15 years. 

One thing that plays a role in how long dental implants last is the location of the implant. Because dental implants near the rear of the mouth are more actively used in chewing, these implants experience more wear and tear. Implants located at the front of your smile will likely last longer. 

Other Benefits of Dental Implants

Besides being long-lasting, dental implants offer several other benefits for patients seeking to replace missing teeth. 

• Functionality: Dental implants work the same as natural teeth, so you’ll be able to speak more clearly, laugh confidently, and continue enjoying your favorite foods.
• Appearance: Dental implants look like natural teeth, giving you a more consistent smile.
• Versatility: Your dentist can replace one tooth or an entire dental arch using dental implants.
• Convenience: To care for your dental implants, all you need to do is practice the same oral care you use for your natural teeth. Additionally, since dental implants are embedded into your jawbone, you don’t have to worry about removing them as you do with traditional dentures.

Are Dental Implants Right for Me?

Dental implants may be an excellent option for replacing a missing tooth or several teeth. If you have no dental insurance, in-house financing plans can help you pay for your beautiful new implants. Dr. Michael Walton and the team at Walton Family Dentistry in Bardstown, Kentucky, are here to help. Request an appointment online or call us today at phone].