Dental implants can last 20 years or longer, and many even last a lifetime when properly cared for. They are made of strong materials like titanium and ceramic, which fuse with your jawbone in a process called osseointegration.
However, like anything else in your mouth, they can still face problems if not maintained.
If you’re searching for dental implants near you, it’s important to understand how long they last, what can go wrong, and how to prevent complications.
What Is the Average Lifespan of a Dental Implant?
Most dental implants last 15 to 25 years, and some last much longer. The implant itself (the metal screw) can last a lifetime, but the crown (the artificial tooth) may need to be replaced after 10 to 15 years due to wear.
- Titanium posts can last more than 20 years or for a lifetime.
- Abutment (i.e. a connector) can last anywhere from 10 to 15 years
- A crown can also last for 10 to 15 years
Success depends on factors like oral hygiene, bone health, and regular dental visits with a trusted dentist in Devon.
What Can Go Wrong with Dental Implants?
Although dental implants have a high success rate (over 95%), there are a few problems that can happen:
Common Issues with Dental Implants:
- Gum infection (peri-implantitis)
- Bone loss around the implant
- Loose implant or crown
- Nerve damage or pain
- Sinus issues (for upper implants)
If you’re experiencing pain, swelling, or loosening, don’t wait, see a dentist near you as soon as possible.
What Causes Dental Implants to Fail Early?
Some implants fail within the first few months due to surgical or healing issues. Others fail after years because of lifestyle or health problems.
Reasons Implants Fail:
- Bad dental hygiene
- Smoking or vaping
- Diabetes that is out of control
- (Bruxism) Grinding of the teeth
- Decreased bone mass
Seeing a skilled dentist in Devon before and after implant surgery helps reduce these risks.
What Steps Should Be Followed To Make Dental Implants Last Longer
If you want your dental implants to last decades, follow these easy steps:
- Regularly floss or use water flossers.
- Have your house cleaned every six months.
- Absence of smoking impairs the condition of your gums and bones.
- If you grind your teeth, buy a nightguard.
- Limit sticky foods and sugary snacks.
With good care and help from a dentist near you, your implants can stay healthy for life.
Dental Implants vs. Other Tooth Replacements
Below are the points of difference between Dental Implants vs. other alternatives
| Feature | Dental Implants | Bridges | Dentures |
| Lifespan | 20+ years | 10–15 years | 5–10 years |
| Looks & Feel | Natural | Fair | Can feel bulky |
| Bone Health Support | Yes | No | No |
| Removable | No | No | Yes |
Implants last the longest and protect the jawbone, making them a great long-term investment.
Are Dental Implants Worth It Long-Term?
Dental implants can last decades, even a lifetime, when placed correctly and cared for properly. They are strong, stable, and act just like real teeth. However, they can still fail due to infection, bone loss, or poor hygiene.
Knowing the signs of trouble and having regular dental checkups is key to keeping your implants in great shape.
If you’re thinking about implants or have questions about your current one, the team at Devon Dental Associates is here to help you smile confidently for years to come.
FAQs
Can dental implants last a lifetime?
Yes, the implant post can last forever if the bone stays healthy and you maintain good oral hygiene.
Do crowns on implants need to be replaced?
Yes, crowns may wear out after 10–15 years, but replacing the crown is much easier than redoing the entire implant.
What can make a dental implant fail early?
Smoking, poor brushing, uncontrolled health problems, and weak bone structure can all cause early failure.
Do dental implants hurt after many years?
No, if they are placed well and taken care of, they should not hurt. If there is pain, it may be due to infection or other issues.
How to identify if there is something wrong with the implants?
Watch for swelling, pain, bleeding, or the implant feeling loose. These are signs you should call your dentist right away.