Greenville, SC guests ask, “Can dental implants decay?”

When tooth loss occurs, it can be a traumatic experience. Dental implants are a durable choice for tooth replacement. However, before choosing a dental restoration, it is important to understand the pros and cons of your options, including can dental implants decay how long the implants may last? With a location in Greenville, SC, Dr. Palmer of Palmer Distinctive Dentistry offer long-lasting dental implants to replace missing teeth.

What is a dental implant?

A dental implant has three main components. The care and quality of each of these contributes to its longevity.

• Implant – A dental implant is a biocompatible post positioned in the jaw to replace a missing tooth. It replaces the tooth root, maintaining the health of the bone.
• Abutment – The abutment attaches to the implant, so a crown can be placed.
• Crown – A crown is the ceramic or porcelain cap that covers the abutment and looks like a natural tooth.

Anticipated lifespan of dental implants

The abutment and crown are more susceptible to damage than the actual implant is. The crown may wear down after 10 to 15 years and need to be replaced. Good dental care can prolong the life of the crown.

Implants can last a lifetime with proper oral care. Regular oral hygiene rules apply. Guests should brush their teeth twice per day and floss daily. Routine dental exams should occur twice per year.

Compared to other dental restorations, implants are a more permanent solution to replace missing teeth. Dentures are not fixed, and may slip. Bridges can decay and put pressure on the adjacent teeth. Implants are stable, are not subject to decay, and do not stress the surrounding teeth.

Factors that affect dental implants

With proper care, implants are a good long-term option for tooth replacement. How long the implant lasts depends on an individual’s lifestyle and oral hygiene. Implants rarely fail due to rejection or functionality issues thanks to the advanced dental technology. Medical conditions or periodontal disease may cause implant failure.

If you are considering dental implants, contact Palmer Distinctive Dentistry for an appointment.

Back to Dental Implants  Page