How long do dental implants last?
With good hygiene and regular check-ups, a dental implant can last for decades, often for life. The crown on top may need replacing after 10 to 15 years of wear.
From the Dental implants guide
With good hygiene and regular check-ups, a dental implant can last for decades, and often for life. The implant itself is titanium and does not decay. The crown on top may need replacing after 10 to 15 years of normal wear.
How long will it last?
| Part | Typical lifespan |
|---|---|
| Titanium implant in the bone | Decades, often for life |
| Crown on top | 10 to 15 years of wear, then replaced if needed |
These are typical figures rather than a guarantee, because results vary from person to person.
What shortens an implant’s life?
Gum disease is the main threat, not the implant. Plaque around an implant can inflame the gum and damage the bone that holds it, just as it can around a natural tooth. Other things that reduce success include:
- Heavy smoking
- Uncontrolled diabetes
- Grinding your teeth without protection
- Skipping cleanings and check-ups
How do you make it last?
- Brush twice a day and clean between your teeth every day
- Have a professional clean every six months, or more often if your dentist advises it
- Tell your dentist if the gum around the implant bleeds or swells, or if the crown feels loose
Thinking about the cost? An implant usually costs more at the start than a bridge or denture, so how long it lasts is part of comparing them fairly.
Still not sure? Ask a dentist
Tell us what is going on and we will tell you plainly what it needs, what it costs and what your cover pays for.