A dental implant can last for many years, and often for decades, when it is well cared for. The crown attached to the implant usually wears sooner and may need replacing after about 10 to 15 years. How long an implant lasts differs from person to person, and no implant is explained for life.
The parts of an implant and how long each lasts
- Implant: a titanium post placed in the jawbone. It can last for decades if the bone and gum around it stay healthy
- Abutment: the connector between the implant and the crown. It rarely needs replacing
- Crown: the visible tooth. It carries the chewing load and may chip, wear or loosen over time
What affects how long an implant lasts?
- Daily cleaning around the implant, including between the teeth
- Regular check-ups and professional cleaning
- Smoking, which increases the risk of implant failure
- Gum disease, past or present
- Health conditions such as poorly controlled diabetes
- Teeth grinding or clenching
- The amount and quality of jawbone
Implants cannot decay, but the gum and bone around them can become infected. This condition, called peri-implantitis, is the main reason implants fail later on.
How long do dental implants take?
From the first consultation to the final crown, implant treatment commonly takes three to six months, and longer if bone grafting is needed. The usual steps are:
- Consultation, X-rays and planning
- Placement of the implant in the jaw
- Healing while the bone bonds to the implant, usually a few months
- Fitting the abutment and taking impressions or scans
- Fitting the final crown
How to look after an implant
- Brush twice a day and clean between the teeth daily
- Attend check-ups at the interval your dentist recommends
- Wear a night guard if you grind your teeth
- Avoid smoking
- Report bleeding, swelling or looseness around the implant early
Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
To discuss whether an implant suits you, see our dental implant consultation page. A dental bridge is another way to replace a missing tooth.
To book a visit at Penrith Dental Care, 42 Castlereagh Street, Penrith, contact our team. This article is general information and does not replace advice from your own dental practitioner.