Living with missing teeth isn’t just an annoyance, it can also cause oral health problems to develop. That’s why most patients turn to dental implants in Melbourne. They’re a long-lasting, strong, and durable solution that offers unmatched benefits compared to traditional options. Although patients are often turned off of the procedure by the higher up-front cost, they forget to consider that they last for decades, making them the more economical solution in the long-run. Read on to learn how the materials and technology used for dental implants contributes to their lifespan of over 30 years when they’re properly cared for.
Key Components and Materials of Dental Implants
There are three key components that complete the dental implant procedure:
- The implant itself, which is a titanium post that’s surgically placed in the jawbone.
- The metal connector piece called the abutment that holds the restoration in place.
- The restoration, which is often crafted from natural-looking materials such as ceramic.
Titanium is a biocompatible metal that is able to naturally fuse with the jawbone, allowing patients to enjoy a strong bite that makes it easy to chew and digest all of their favorite foods with ease. Additionally, it forms something called an oxide layer once it has integrated with the body, keeping it from eroding or rusting away, and extending its lifespan. Because the realistic-looking restorations are crafted from strong and durable materials such as ceramic and porcelain, with the proper care, they maintain their beautiful appearance and last for decades.
Average Lifespan of Implants Compared To Other Replacement Options
Dental implants are a relatively newer dental treatment, which means there are only a few long-term clinical studies that have speculated their maximum lifespan. As of now, they’re expected to last about 30 years with the proper aftercare and at-home hygiene routine. However, many professionals and researchers believe that they can last even longer, possibly a lifetime.
Other tooth-replacement options such as denture, fixed bridges, and crowns that aren’t fused with the jawbone need to typically be replaced every 7 to ten years, even with great aftercare. This means that although implants may have a higher up-front cost, patients are able to enjoy them more. In the time that someone goes through three pairs of dentures, a different person with implants didn’t have to worry about readjusting, relining, or restoring their restoration.
Caring For Dental Implants To Extend Their Life
The best way to get the most out of dental implants in Melbourne is to develop a good oral hygiene routine and keep up with their professional preventive care. After all, one of the biggest factors that results in implant failure is poor oral hygiene. To avoid this from happening, be sure to:
- Brush your teeth after each meal using a non-abrasive toothpaste and soft-bristled brush.
- Rinse daily with antibacterial mouthwash.
- Floss at least one time every day.
- Visit your dentist every six months for checkups and cleanings.
Although dental implants seem like a large investment of money and time, most patients and professionals will agree that it’s well worth it. While traditional restorations provide basic restored function of your mouth and an aesthetically pleasing look, dental implants practically give you back your home-grown pearly whites because they rebuild the structure of your missing teeth from the root up. 30 years from now, you won’t regret the decision!
About the Author
Dr. Beverly Rose has been in private practice in the Melbourne area for over two decades and has developed great, long-lasting relationships with her patients. She stays up-to-date with the latest advancements in her field by remaining an active member of professional organizations, allowing her to offer high-tech services such as dental implants. She has also undergone extensive post-graduate training in several techniques. For questions or to schedule a consultation for dental implants, visit Exceptional Dentistry’s website or call 321-259-4666.