Dental Articles

Longevity of Dental Implants

Modern dental implants have a history of approximately 25 years, and the data generated worldwide states that 95% of dental implants can be expected to last for a period of 15 years (accurate data collection started about 20 years ago), and predictions are that 90% of dental implants should last a lifetime in correct conditions.

Once dental implant restoration has been completed it is generally agreed that as long as the implants have been placed correctly and the restorative work is complete then the onus is on the patient to ensure the completed treatment is monitored and maintained properly. If a patient completes treatment and does not visit a dentist or hygienist regularly (2 to 3 times a year) there is a much higher risk of failure.

Smokers are a group with one of the highest risk of implant failure, and data shows that the failure rate for smokers is 10 to 15%, and this failure rate is similar for patients with high alcohol consumption. There are several different medical conditions and of course any facial trauma can also affect the longevity of dental implants.