How Long Do Dental Implants Last? An Evidence-Based Answer
Dental implants are often described as permanent. This is imprecise. Implants have high survival rates, but longevity depends on multiple biological, mechanical, and behavioral factors.
Understanding what actually lasts—and why—prevents false expectations.
Implant Survival vs Prosthetic Survival
Dental implant systems consist of two distinct elements:
- The implant fixture embedded in bone
- The prosthetic restoration attached to it
These components have different lifespans.
Implant fixtures often last decades. Prosthetic components experience wear and may require replacement over time.
Reported Survival Rates
Long-term studies show:
- Implant survival rates exceeding 90–95% at 10–15 years
- Higher success in healthy, non-smoking patients
- Increased complications in high-risk populations
Survival does not equal complication-free performance.
Factors That Reduce Longevity
Biological Factors
- Smoking
- Poor oral hygiene
- Peri-implantitis
- Systemic disease affecting bone or immunity
These contribute to bone loss around implants.
Mechanical Factors
- Excessive bite forces
- Bruxism
- Poor prosthetic design
- Inadequate implant number
Mechanical overload accelerates failure even when integration was initially successful.
Maintenance and Monitoring
Long-term success requires:
- Daily hygiene access
- Professional maintenance
- Bite adjustments as forces change over time
Neglect is the most common cause of late implant failure.
When Implants Fail After Many Years
Late failures typically involve:
- Progressive bone loss
- Prosthetic complications
- Untreated inflammation
Early intervention often salvages implants. Delay leads to loss.
Realistic Longevity Expectations
Implants are not maintenance-free. They are long-term medical devices requiring oversight.
When properly planned and maintained, they are among the longest-lasting tooth replacement options available.
Long-Term Care in Sacramento
At Fusion Dental Implants, we provide comprehensive maintenance programs to protect your investment. Our team monitors every implant for long-term success.
About Fusion Dental Implants: Committed to long-term implant success in Roseville, El Dorado Hills, and throughout Northern California.