Dental implants have become a popular restoration option for missing teeth. People want more natural-looking, long-lasting replacements for their missing teeth, so dental implants are the ideal solution compared to removable dentures or bridges that can shift or even fall out. As a South Surrey dental implant provider for over 17 years, patients often ask us how long it will take for their dental implants to fuse or become integrated with their jawbone. It takes several months for implants to become fully integrated into your jawbone but with the right care, dental implants can last a lifetime.
What is a Dental Implant?
Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that are surgically placed into the jawbone. They provide a strong foundation for permanent or removable replacement teeth that are made to match your natural teeth. Implants provide a more natural and comfortable fit than traditional bridges and dentures, and they help to maintain the structure of the jaw. They also have a high success rate, with some studies showing a success rate of up to 97%. Dental implants are a great option for those who have lost one or more teeth due to trauma, decay, or other reasons. With proper installation and care, dental implants can last a lifetime.
The Osseointegration Process
For dental implants to become stable and fuse to your jawbone, they must undergo a process called osseointegration. This is where the implant fuses with the surrounding bone. This process is essential for the implant to remain in place and provide long-term support for the replacement tooth.
The Fusing Process
The osseointegration process takes several months to complete. Most patients may expect their dental implants to fully fuse to their jawbone within 3 – 6 months. During this time, the implant and surrounding bone form a strong bond. This bond is essential for the implant to remain secure and stable.
Initially, when the implant is embedded in the bone, it is not yet fused. At this point, the titanium implant is hidden beneath the periosteum or soft tissue for three months in order to achieve osseointegration. Afterwards, the dental implant is uncovered and a permanent prosthesis (dental crown) is constructed to attach to the implant. During the first 3 to 6 months of healing, the implant should remain stationary. During this time, the implant and bone form a strong bond.
During the healing period, dentures or partials can be worn over the implants while the osseointegration process is taking place. The temporary teeth will be made prior to the removal of the existing teeth in cases where both, tooth removal and implant replacement, are required.
Factors that Affect Osseointegration
The length of the osseointegration process can vary from patient to patient. Factors that can affect osseointegration include:
🦷️ Health: Dental implants require a certain amount of healthy bone to fuse with. Consequently, for patients who do not have an ideal level of oral health or have underlying medical conditions, it may take longer for dental implants to fuse to their jawbone.
🦷️ Placement: The placement of implants can affect how long it takes for them to fuse with the bone. Implants that are placed in areas with less bone may also take longer to integrate. In such cases, before the implant treatment, the patient may have to undergo additional procedures like bone graft surgery or ridge augmentation.
🦷️ Care: Proper at-home care is essential for your implant to heal properly. You should follow your dentist’s instructions and keep your mouth clean to ensure osseointegration is successful. What’s more, during the osseointegration, you should avoid hard, crunchy, and spicy foods in order to protect your jawbone and healing implants.
🦷️ Smoking: Before and after getting dental implants, it is important to quit smoking since it can impede the success of implant placement. Smoking can lead to gum disease, which can cause the gums to recede and loosen the surrounding teeth and can also reduce blood flow to the gums. This can lead to a decrease in the amount of oxygen and nutrients that reach the gums, weakening them and making them more susceptible to infection. As a result, it can increase the risk of implant failure. Therefore, quitting smoking before and after dental implant placement is essential for the success of your implants, and for your oral and overall health.
After Osseointegration
Once your implant is fully fused with your jawbone, the abutment and dental crown can be placed. The restoration should be strong and secure, providing long-term support for your missing tooth/teeth. Even though dental implants are permanent tooth replacement solutions, they may not last forever.
How Long Can Dental Implants Last?
Dental implants have an estimated lifespan of about 25 years based on regular cleanings and home care practices but if they are installed properly and you maintain your oral health they can last a lifetime.
How long your dental implants last will depend on several factors:
🦷️ Oral hygiene – bacteria can cause gum disease which can result in implant failure
🦷️ Lifestyle choices such as smoking and excessive alcohol consumption – both habits can affect your immune system and your body’s ability to heal
🦷️ Chronic health problems – health issues can make you more vulnerable to infections and make it more difficult for you to recover and heal
🦷️ Accidents causing damage or injury to your implants
Schedule Your Dental Implant Consultation
If you are interested in dental implants and still have questions about what they are, how they work, or if they are right for you, arrange for a consultation at our South Surrey dental clinic today.
My Dentist at Morgan Creek offers implant dentistry services, same-day dental implants, same-day dentures, and Cerec® 1 Appointment crowns, for patients with busy schedules. We provide a range of implant dentistry services, such as full arch replacement with implant-supported dentures and implant-supported bridges, and single and mini dental implants. Other services include implant-supported crowns, guided implant surgeries, bone grafting, soft tissue grafting, sinus augmentation, and ridge modification procedures.
We have been providing dental implants for over 17 years in South Surrey and White Rock, BC. We receive many patient referrals for dental implants. Book your consultation online or call us at 604-542-0123 to find out what your options are.
