How Long Do Implant Supported Dentures Last?
When considering how long implant supported dentures should last, it’s important to remember that every dental implant consists of two separate primary components: the dental implant post and the prosthetic supported by that post. Dental implant posts are made of highly biocompatible material, like titanium or zirconium, that is designed to last a lifetime and become a permanent part of the body, fusing together with the bone. Therefore, the implants themselves, when cared for properly, should remain comfortably in the jaw for decades.
Of course, every dental implant also supports some type of dental prosthetic, and these prosthetics have varied lifespans depending on their structure, function, and the material they’re made of. While the smaller metal or nylon attachments and accessory pieces that attach the dental prosthetic to the implant posts might need replacement or adjustment every few years, the denture itself should last about 10 to 15 years with proper care and maintenance. These prosthetic dentures are made from a few different materials, including acrylic, porcelain, zirconia, and ceramic, which can affect each device’s longevity. Keeping implant supported dentures and the oral tissues that support them clean is the other significant influence on their longevity.
The method for cleaning removable implant supported dentures is different from the method for permanent ones, but both focus on cleaning the gums, the areas around implant abutments, and the prosthetics themselves, rinsing or using specialized tools as needed. The gums and other surfaces should be brushed gently with a soft-bristled brush, with the goal of removing bacteria and plaque from the gumline. When the denture is permanent, the teeth are brushed just as natural teeth would be; when the denture is removable, it is cleaned and soaked overnight, and the abutments are brushed along with the gums.
Routine visits to the dentist are also an integral part of the long-term success of implant supported dentures. Regular checkups help alert you and your dentist to issues early on, and professional cleanings help ensure the continued health of the bones and gums and long-term success of the implants. To help your prosthetic teeth last as long as possible, follow your dentist’s recommendations. Some common recommendations include:
- Avoid biting hard foods or non-food items that could damage the prosthetic teeth
- Brush diligently and rinse or floss to clean hidden or remote areas of the mouth
- See your dentist regularly, at recommended intervals
- Remember that your teeth aren’t tools; they aren’t designed to bite or chew anything that isn’t food, and they aren’t made to open bottles or packages
- If you play contact sports, make sure you wear a mouth guard
Combining the durability and stability of dental implants with the convenience of traditional dentures, implant supported dentures can provide the best of both worlds for people who want to replace multiple missing teeth. You’re ultimately in control of how long your dental implants will last, and, with your help, your dentures can stay comfortable and functional for at least the next decade. This might require some new habits, but such changes are minor when compared to a future with no teeth at all. Set up a consultation for implant supported dentures today, and you can look forward to decades of improved quality of life and happier, healthier smiles.
Related Article: What Are Implant Supported Dentures?