How Long Do Dental Implants Last? Are They Worth the Investment?

Are you missing a tooth or multiple teeth and are currently looking into tooth replacement options offered by your local Meridian, Idaho dentist? When it comes to replacing teeth, there are several options made available to patients. These options include dental bridges, dentures, and implants. When comparing these options, several factors come into play, including cost and how long the restoration will last. 

If you are considering a dental implant, you may wonder if they are permanent since they have to be surgically inserted. Dr. Kevin Pulsipher and the team at Mint Dental would like to share some information with you about dental implants.

If you have done some research, you may have already discovered that dental implants cost more upfront than dental bridges or dentures. So, if you are going to pay a premium for what many dentists consider the “gold standard” of tooth replacement options, you likely want to know if it is worth the investment. 

Many patients ask, “Are dental implants permanent?” You will be happy to learn here that, yes, they are! Dental implants are the most modern restorative tooth replacement option made available to patients, and they are unmatched when it comes to mimicking the function and appearance of a natural tooth. Dental implants offer benefits that no other tooth replacement option can. 

One of the most essential benefits is how a dental implant replaces the tooth both above and below the gumline. Dental implants can mimic the missing tooth’s root, meaning your jawbone will remain healthy, and you will not need to worry about it deteriorating over time due to a loss of stimulation once provided by your missing tooth’s root. Let’s take a dive and learn more about dental implants.

What is a dental implant?

A dental implant is made of three distinct parts that all play a specific and necessary role:

• Implant post or screw
• Abutment
• Crown

The implant post or screw is the part of the implant surgically implanted into your jawbone. These are typically crafted from either titanium or zirconia. Depending on your dentist, they may offer one or both options, so you will need to ask. 

Once the surgical process has been completed, your jaw will begin to fuse and integrate with the implant via osseointegration. This is the most critical stage of the process as it creates the strong foundation any implant needs to succeed. 

Onto the implant, an abutment is attached. The abutment’s role is to provide a way for the dental crown to be attached. The dental crown is the portion that will reside above the gumline and provide the look and function of a natural tooth.

How Long Will a Dental Implant Last?

It is common for the implanted post to last you a lifetime, making it more affordable than you first thought. While dental implants can be more expensive than a dental bridge or denture up front, the fact you don’t have to replace it every few years is a big plus. Over time, a dental implant becomes more affordable. The only part you will need to replace is the dental crown, which lasts 10 to 30 years. 

It is essential to properly care for your crown to ensure it lasts as long as it should via an adhered-to oral hygiene regimen, including brushing, flossing, and rinsing.

To learn more about dental implants, please call our office at (208) 900-4669.

Dr. Kevin Pulsipher | Mint Dental

Dr. Kevin Pulsipher graduated from Brigham Young University (BA in Russian in 2013) and Midwestern University School of Dental Medicine (Doctorate in Dental Medicine in 2017). He served as a dentist in the US Army for four years before settling in the Treasure Valley.

He is committed to continuous education and has spent over 100 hours each on implant and dental sleep medicine courses. He is a member of the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine and the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine (Diplomate).

Providing premium care to patients is Dr. Pulsipher’s priority, and he has been doing this for seven years as a general dentist.

Connect with Dr. Kevin Pulsipher on LinkedIn

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