Brief about the structure and procedure of dental implants

The dental implants are made of three structures—the crown, the implant post, and the abutment.

• The crown is the false tooth that mimics the natural tooth and is made of ceramic.
• The implant post is the part that mimics the natural root of a tooth and is made of titanium or zirconium.
• The abutment is the component that secures the crown and the post intact.

The dental implant procedure involves steps like initial assessment, preparatory steps, the actual surgery (screwing the post), the osseointegration, and then fixing the abutment and the crown.

Is a dental implant permanent?

When screwed perfectly and in the right position, the implant posts can serve for a lifetime. Thus, becomes a promising permanent solution for the identified dental problem. However, the longevity or lifespan of dental implants depends on how well you maintain them.

In other words, it depends on how frequently you’re undergoing the regular check-ups, the quality of brushing and flossing, the number of times you hard bite, how well you maintain the jawbone, and the total oral hygiene you maintain regularly. Also, if you want to increase the lifespan of your implant, ensure you quit smoking and avoid using hard-bristled tooth brushes.

Does the type of dental implants matter?

Of course, the implant type matters as it serves different purposes. The most common type of implant that involves insertion into the jawbone is called the ‘endosteal’ implant and lasts for a lifetime. The other types of implants, including all-on-four, subperiosteal, and zygomatic implants, are almost similar to a permanent implant and can last more than two to three decades.

However, the mini dental implants involving smaller posts are preferred when the space is limited. This has a shorter lifespan than standard endosteal implants.

How long can dental implants last?

In general, a dental implant can last for decades. Once fused properly with the jawline, they become a permanent solution, and no replacement of the post is required. On the other hand, the crown above the jawline can last only for about 10–15 years as it undergoes everyday wear and tear.

Moreover, as said earlier, you can ensure your dental implants last for a lifetime if you maintain good oral hygiene. Having said this, the quality of screwing the post is crucial. So, consult only the experienced orthodontists who are adept at implant procedures. Certainly, there is no point in maintaining oral health when the implant post is placed in the wrong position, or the crown or the post is made of a low-quality material.

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Pristine Dental and Orthodontics, a trusted family dentist in Arnold, MO, is a state-of-the-art dental care facility with experienced and highly proficient orthodontists and dental hygienists. They offer expert dental care at affordable costs with flexible payment methods. With decades of experience handling dental implants for people of all ages—kids, adults, and seniors—they’re the top choice for your family’s dental needs.