How Long do Full Mouth Dental Implants last?
Full Mouth Dental implants can last a long time. Depending on the quality of materials used and the success of the placement, they can last the lifetime of the patient. Living with missing teeth can be difficult, adding strain to your life in unpredictable ways. You are not on your own, millions of people are living with tooth loss.
However, thanks to modern dentistry, millions are gaining their self confidence back with dental implants. Dental Implants can give patients the ability to live their lives to the fullest, and make the choices they want to make. Replacing missing teeth has proven benefits for patients dental health, mental health, diet, and lifestyle.
What are Dental Implants?
Dental Implants are synthetic teeth, made of various strong materials, that are anchored into your jaw. The teeth will function just like your originals, they will withstand the force of your chewing and allow you to eat whatever you like. Dental Implants typically have three parts; an anchor, an abutment, and a crown.
The Dental Implant Process
Dental Implants begin with a consultation with your dentist. After this your dentist can review your x-rays, dental history, and any history of infections. If your jaw and bone structure can support an anchor, a dental surgeon will implant it. Commonly the anchor is inserted into the jaw in what is known as an Endosteal Implant. The other option is one inserted into the gum, but above the jaw, and this is known as a Subperiosteal Implant. After the anchor is inserted it will take time for your jaw to acclimate and meld with the anchor. This process of integration into the bone is referred to as Osseointegration. After roughly a month of healing, the abutment and the dental crown can be attached to the anchor. After the implant is secure in your mouth, you just need to maintain regular checkups with your dentist, and practice proper dental hygiene to keep your mouth in good health.
How Long Will my Dental Implant last?
Dental Implants, full mouth or otherwise, can last that lifetime of the patient. The implant anchor and screw can last indefinitely, assuming the placement is accurate. The anchor can also be affected by gum infections or problems with the osseointegration, so it is vital to maintain regular checkups and fastidious oral hygiene. The implant crown, the synthetic teeth, on average last about 10-15 years. However, most of this average is based on materials with the same shelf life. There are new breakthroughs in materials used for dental implants all the time, with materials like Zirconia lasting upwards of 20 years. So the age of the dental crown will be dependent on the materials used, the handling of materials in construction of the implant, and the patient’s ownership of dental hygiene. With proper care and regular cleanings and checkups, there is no definite expiration date on your full mouth dental implants.
How do I get Dental Implants?
Begin by discussing your needs with your dentist. Ask them if full mouth dental implants may be the right solution to your dental problems. If they decide that this is the right call, and your body can handle the surgery, you can meet with your Dental Implant team and begin the process straight away.