How Long Do Dental Implants Last
Tulsa, OK
 A dental implant is an artificial tooth that replaces a damaged or missing one. It is a permanent fixture made of three pieces: | • |
A titanium post that is embedded in the jaw
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An abutment that is screwed on top of the post
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A crown that is fitted on top of the abutment |
This implant is inserted through dental implantation surgery. Despite being invasive surgery, a dental implant is the best choice for patients with good bone health. Dental Implants preserve bone health just like natural teeth do, thus preventing jaw bone deterioration, as seen with people with only dentures. If a patient takes proper care of their dental implant, it can last over 25 years. However, factors such as improper oral hygiene, facial trauma, smoking, or drinking can reduce the lifespan of a dental implant.
Here at Smiles of Tulsa, our dentists Corbyn VanBrunt, DDS and , believe that dental implantation only needs to be done once. They take the utmost care to ensure your implant is of the best quality and fixed correctly so that you never have any problems.
A dental implant is made of three parts: the artificial root, the abutment, and the crown.
Artificial Root of a Dental Implant
The artificial root of a dental implant looks like a small screw and is made of titanium or titanium alloy. There is a great deal of well-documented research, and a high success rate backs the use of titanium. It is the standard non-toxic, non-reactive material and lasts over 20 years.
The Abutment of a Dental Implant
The abutment of a dental implant is the piece that fits on top of the titanium post where the crown is cemented. Common materials include titanium, cast gold, and surgical-grade stainless steel. Titanium is the most common choice as it has the most extended life.
The Crown of a Dental Implant
The final step of a dental implant procedure is to fit the crown. This is the part of the implant that is visible. The most popular choice for a natural look is ceramic and porcelain, which can last over 15 years. Zirconia is also another popular option. It is similar to ceramic but strong, making it a good choice for molar crowns, but it may look too apparent as a crown for more visible teeth.
For a flashier option, gold crowns are also available. These crowns are not made entirely of gold. Instead, they are blended with another metal, such as chromium, nickel, or palladium. This increases the life of the crown and decreases its cost. Research suggests that a gold crown can last upwards of 30 years, making it a durable, albeit shiny, option.
Make an Appointment Today
If you are considering getting a dental implant or having one repaired, call us at (918) 891-3059 to schedule a dental implantation consultation. Here at Smiles of Tulsa, our priority is giving you an in-depth consultation that answers all of your questions and considerations. Let one of our doctors help you find the best way to restore your dental health. |
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