Dental Implants are titanium fixtures which are placed into the jawbone to replace missing single/multiple teeth and/or to secure loose dentures. When performed correctly they can be a direct replacement for your missing tooth and should feel and function exactly the same way.
The longevity of dental implants depends on many factors and it is important that your dentist discusses this with you before commencing any treatment. Not everyone is a suitable candidate for implants so a risk assessment should always be performed prior to treatment. This can significantly reduce your risk of failure.
Some contraindications to dental implants include a complex medical history, smoking, poor oral hygiene, existing gum disease, poor bone quality and quantity to name a few. Uncontrolled diabetes is a common presentation and this must be managed before any surgical treatment. Smoking more than a few cigarettes a day can also affect the integration of the dental implant and also the healing process so they are not good candidates for dental implant treatment.
Another common risk for failure is existing gum disease and/or poor oral hygiene. Like your own teeth the health of the implant will depend on how well you look after it. Plaque left around your implant will cause inflammation and if left long enough irreversible bone loss causing the threads of the implant to be exposed which can further attract plaque. This can be the start of a vicious cycle with eventual implant loss which is why you need to visit your dentist on a regular basis to address any issues early to avoid more serious complications.
Smoking and vaping affects integration of the implants directly by reducing blood supply, delaying healing and preventing bone cells from attaching to the implant surface. Certain medications namely those used for bone diseases such as osteoporosis can also affect the integration of the implant as it interferes with the bone turnover process.
Success of dental implants begins at a very early stage by careful assessment and suitability of treatment and continues with careful placement and long term care and follow up. This will ensure many years of dental implant success.