How long does a dental implant last?

The lifespan of a dental implant depends on several factors. On the part of the dentist, it depends on the volume of bone, the volume of gum tissue surrounding the implant, and the transfer and shape of the screw-retained crown. On the part of the patient, it depends on their personal oral hygiene, adherence to the recommended care provided by the dental hygienist, and their lifestyle.

If a dental implant is inserted correctly, it is possible to achieve long-term results. If you follow the recommendation to visit a dental hygienist every 3 or 6 months, your implant can last for more than 20 years, and in some cases even a lifetime.

However, to be realistic, it is necessary to distinguish between two parts of the implant:

The implant itself (titanium or zirconium screw)

This is the "root" that heals into the jawbone. If it successfully integrates with the bone and the patient takes good care of it, its lifespan is estimated to be 25 years to a lifetime. Modern materials are biocompatible and are very well accepted by the body.

The crown (the visible part of the tooth)

This is exposed to mechanical stress during chewing, just like natural teeth. The lifespan of a crown is usually between 10 and 15 years. After this time, it may wear out or chip and need to be replaced, while the screw in the bone remains.

What affects the lifespan of an implant?

Lifespan is not automatically guaranteed; it depends on several key factors:

• Hygiene first: This is the be-all and end-all. Inflammation (known as peri-implantitis) can develop around the implant, causing bone loss and subsequent implant failure. Special interdental brushes are a must.
• Smoking: Smokers have a statistically much higher risk of implant failure because nicotine impairs blood circulation in the gums and slows down healing.
• Overall health: Diabetes (if not under control) or osteoporosis can affect the stability of the implant in the bone.
• Bone quality and the dentist's work: Precise insertion into a sufficient volume of bone is the cornerstone of success.

How to extend the life of a dental implant?

• Regular check-ups: Once every six months at the dentist.
• Dental hygiene: Professional cleaning at least twice a year.
• Night guards: If you grind your teeth at night (bruxism), a guard will protect the crown from cracking.

Interesting fact: The first patient in the world with modern titanium implants had them in his mouth for over 40 years – until the end of his life.