Material Matters: Will Your Dental Implants Last a Lifetime?

If you’re considering dental implants, you probably already know they offer one of the best ways to replace missing teeth. But were you aware that the materials used for your implant can greatly affect its lifespan? So, how long do implants last? Continue reading to compare a few common mediums used in dental implants and how they influence durability, longevity, and your long-term oral health.

Tried-and-True Titanium

Titanium implants have been the standard for decades—and for good reason. Known for their exceptional strength and biocompatibility, titanium implants fuse securely with your jawbone.

This fusion, called osseointegration, creates a firm anchor point, helping your implant feel and function just like a natural tooth. With proper oral care and regular dental visits, titanium implants often last for decades.

Modern and Metal-Free Zirconia

Zirconia implants are a newer, metal-free option that’s quickly gaining popularity. Made from ceramic, zirconia implants look more like natural tooth structures and provide strength and durability very similar to titanium.

The main draw for zirconia is the fact that it’s hypoallergenic, making it an ideal medium if you have metal sensitivities. While zirconia implants don’t have decades of research behind them yet, early studies show they have excellent longevity and reliability.

Other Factors Affecting the Lifespan of Your Dental Implants

No matter which material you choose, there are still several other factors that can influence how long your dental implants last. Practically, this means that you can feel free to choose either titanium or zirconia based on your preferences and still reap all the benefits. Here are some of the other things that can affect your implants:

• Oral Hygiene: Good brushing and flossing habits significantly extend implant lifespan by preventing infections and gum disease.
• Regular Dental Checkups: Routine visits to your dentist help catch and prevent potential problems before they become more serious.
• Lifestyle: Smoking, vaping, or heavy alcohol use can shorten the life of your implants. Healthy lifestyle choices dramatically improve implant longevity.

While the material your implant is made of can affect its durability and aesthetics, it’s more important to focus on the environment in your mouth. By putting effort into your oral hygiene, you can keep them around for decades, or even a lifetime!

About the Practice

At A New Smile, helping patients enjoy strong, lasting grins is at the heart of everything we do. With attention to detail, quality materials, and precision techniques, we deliver beautiful dental implants designed to stand the test of time. If you’re ready to improve your smile and enjoy life to the fullest, call (818) 897-5771 to schedule a dental implant consultation with us. You can also visit our website to explore other services.