Here we explain how long dental implants are durable and what you can do on a daily basis to keep them strong for years. Dental implants are a permanent option for your missing teeth. They are made of strong titanium and are placed in the jawbone as artificial roots. Once healed, a crown is placed on it to finish your smile. So, how long do dental implants last? It all depends on your daily habits, level of oral health, and how well you maintain them.
How Long Dental Implants Last
Generally, most dental implants last 20 years or longer, and many of them last a lifetime if they are kept in good condition. Their success will depend on numerous factors, but what research has determined is that dental implants have a success rate of more than 95% after 10 years.
What makes dental implants last longer:
- Good daily brushing and flossing
- Regular dental visits
- Not using tobacco
- A good diet
- Avoiding hard or sticky foods
Implants have a considerably longer lifespan than bridges or dentures when properly maintained.
Key Variables Influencing Dental Implant Longevity
Most individuals consider dental implants to be permanent and require no maintenance. However, several factors affecting dental implant lifespan can change how long they remain strong and functional.
Some of the most common ones are:
- Oral hygiene habits – Plaque formation may cause infection around the implant
- Gum status – Gums must be healthy to support the implant
- Bone support – There must be sufficient jawbone to firmly anchor the implants.
- Habits in life – Excess alcohol or smoking will limit lifespan.
- Disease – Diabetes or osteoporosis can cause disruption to healing.
Even with strong material and expert placement, implants need ongoing care to avoid complications.
Why Regular Visits To A Dental Clinic Matter
Partnering with a dental clinic in Winnipeg is one of the smartest ways to keep your dental implants in great condition.
Here’s how professional care helps:
- Your dentist will check your implant during each visit
- Dental hygienists use special tools to clean around implants.
- Regular X-rays monitor the bone levels under the implant.
- You’ll get tips for brushing and flossing effectively.
Even if your implants feel fine, silent problems can develop without warning. That’s why regular dental care is essential.
Benefits Of Choosing Dental Implants
Many people in Winnipeg are choosing dental implants because of their long-term success and natural look. If you’re thinking about dental implants in Winnipeg, there are several reasons why this choice makes sense:
- Implants are secure and don’t move like dentures
- They help keep your jawbone healthy.
- You can eat all your favourite foods comfortably.
- They look and feel like natural teeth.
- You can speak clearly and smile with confidence.
With proper care, implants often last longer than other tooth replacement options.
Smart Aftercare For Dental Implants
Aftercare for dental implants starts from the day of surgery and continues for life. The first few weeks after implant placement are important for healing, and daily care keeps the area healthy over time.
Early Aftercare Tips:
- Stick to soft foods while the area heals
- Avoid chewing adjacent to the implant for a few weeks.
- Use a gentle mouthwash if recommended.
- Avoid brushing the area aggressively for the first few days.
Long-Term Care:
- Brush twice a day using a soft toothbrush
- Floss daily using special floss or interdental brushes.
- Visit your dentist every 3–6 months.
- Avoid chewing hard items such as ice or popcorn kernels.
Simple Dental Implant Maintenance Tips To Follow
Once your implants are healed, you need to keep up with good habits. These easy dental implant maintenance tips will help you avoid problems:
- Brush around the implant for two full minutes
- Use an electric toothbrush if possible.
- Clean between teeth and implants with floss or small brushes.
- Skip the tobacco and limit alcohol.
- Protect your implant from grinding by using a nightguard.
- Watch for signs of swelling or redness around the gums.
These steps can stop infections and damage before they start and make your implants last much longer.
How To Care For Dental Implants At Home The Right Way
If you’re wondering how to care for dental implants at home, caring for them at home is basically like caring for natural teeth, just with a little more care.
Here are the basics:
- Use non-abrasive toothpaste to avoid scratching your crown
- Angle your toothbrush to reach around the implant crown and gumline.
- Clean around implants daily to prevent plaque buildup.
- After eating, rinse your mouth to get rid of food residue.
- Replace your toothbrush regularly.
These small steps go a long way in keeping your dental implants and gums healthy.
Problems That Can Happen If You Don’t Maintain Implants
Dental implants can last for many years, but ignoring proper care can lead to failure. A common issue is peri-implantitis, which is like gum disease but around an implant.
Warning signs to watch for:
- Gums that bleed when brushing
- Swelling or pain near the implant
- Loose implant or crown
- Bad breath that doesn’t go away
If you notice any of these signs, see your dentist right away to avoid bone loss or implant failure.
Take The First Step Toward A Lasting Smile With Smiles On Portage Dental Centre
Ready to make your implants last a lifetime? Whether you’ve already had implants placed or are thinking about getting them, expert care is key. At Smiles on Portage Dental Centre, we’re here to help with personalized aftercare, regular cleanings, and expert advice on keeping your implants in top condition.
Call our team today to schedule your visit. Let us help you protect your smile and keep your implants healthy for years to come!