How Long Do Dental Implants Last? Here's the Honest Answer
Thinking about getting a dental implant? You’re probably wondering how long it’s going to last - and it’s a fair question. After all, it’s not a small decision. Dental implants take time, care, and a bit of investment, so it’s only natural to want to know you’re getting something that’ll go the distance.
The good news? When they’re done properly and looked after, dental implants can last a very long time - decades in fact. In some cases, they can even last a lifetime.
Let’s break it all down in plain English so you know exactly what to expect.
First Things First - What Actually Is a Dental Implant?
If you’re not 100% sure what we mean by ‘implant’, here’s a quick explainer.
A dental implant is a small, strong post (usually made of titanium) that gets placed into your jawbone where a tooth is missing. Think of it like an artificial tooth root. Over time, your bone grows around it, locking it firmly in place. Once it’s settled in, we fit a crown (the bit that looks like a tooth) on top - so you end up with something that looks and works just like the real thing.
It doesn’t wobble, it won’t fall out, and you don’t need to take it out at night. It’s fixed, natural-looking, and incredibly durable.
So… How Long Are We Talking?
Let’s split this into two parts:
The Implant (the part in your jaw):
This bit is built to last. With the right care, dental implants can easily last 20+ years - often much longer. Some people have had theirs for 30 or 40 years without any problems.
Titanium doesn’t rust, your body won’t reject it, and once it’s integrated into your jawbone, it becomes incredibly stable. As long as the bone and gums around it stay healthy, the implant post itself can stay put for life.
The Crown (the tooth on top):
Crowns aren’t quite as long-lasting as the implant post, simply because they go through more wear and tear - especially if you’re a clencher, grinder, or enthusiastic toffee-eater! On average, a crown might last 10-15 years, but many go longer. And if it ever needs replacing, it’s usually just the crown - not the implant underneath.
What Makes Implants Last Longer?
This part’s important - because while implants can last a lifetime, it really depends on how they’re looked after and how they’re placed.
Here’s what makes a big difference:
- Having It Done Right: Implants aren’t a one-size-fits-all treatment. You need a proper plan, the right scans, and a skilled, experienced dentist who knows what they’re doing. We’ve placed over 5,000 implants over the years - and we take our time to get every one right. That means better results now, and fewer problems later.
- Keeping Your Gums Healthy: Implants don’t get cavities, but the gum and bones around them still become infected if they’re not looked after. That’s why daily brushing, flossing (or interdental brushes), and regular hygiene appointments are non-negotiable.
- Regular Check-Ups: A quick look from your dentist every 6 to 12 months can catch any early signs of trouble - like gum inflammation, bite issues, or a bit of wear on the crown. Prevention is always easier (and cheaper) than fixing things down the line.
- Quitting Smoking: We know - easier said than done. But smoking is one of the biggest risk factors for implant failure. It affects how you heal, how healthy your gums stay, and how well your implant bonds with the bone. If you’re a smoker, we’ll always have a respectful, honest chat about how that might affect things - and what support is available if you’re thinking about cutting down or quitting.
- Avoiding Grinding: If you grind or clench your teeth (especially at night), the constant pressure can wear down the crown or put stress on the implant. A custom night guard can help protect your teeth while you sleep.
Can Implants Fail?
It’s rare, especially if everything’s planned and placed correctly - but yes, it can happen.
Reasons might include:
- Gum disease around the implant (called peri-implantitis)
- Bone loss
- Smoking
- Poor oral hygiene
- Health conditions like uncontrolled diabetes
- Trauma or injury to the mouth
Again, this is why planning and aftercare really matter. We’re not just sticking a screw in and hoping for the best - we take a whole-mouth, long-term view, and make sure your implant has the best chance of lasting.
Will I Need to Replace My Implant?
In most cases, no - not the implant itself. If the crown gets a bit worn or damaged, years down the line, we can usually just replace that without touching the implant underneath.
It’s a bit like changing the tyres on a car - the body’s still in great shape, you’re just refreshing the bit that takes the brunt of the work.
Final Thoughts
Dental implants are one of the most reliable, long-lasting treatments in modern dentistry. They’re strong, secure, and feel just like real teeth. And when done properly - and looked after well - they can last a lifetime.
So if you’re weighing it up and wondering whether implants are worth it, the answer is: for most people, absolutely. It’s not just about filling a gap - it’s about getting your confidence, comfort and bite back.
Thinking About Dental Implants in Norwich?
We’re here to help. Whether you’ve already decided to go ahead, or you’re still weighing up your options, we’re happy to talk it through. No pressure, no judgement - just honest advice from a team that’s done this thousands of times.
- Call us on 01603 632525
- Or send us a quick message via the contact form
We’ll guide you every step of the way.