Do Dental Implants Need to be Replaced? What You Need to Know

Most people who can afford dental implants get them, and understandably so. Not only do they look and feel like your natural teeth, but they’re also strong enough to bite into hard foods. They're also a top choice for dentists for replacing missing permanent teeth.

If you have, or are mulling over getting dental implants, you’ve probably wondered how long they last. It’s no secret that these restorations tilt towards the expensive, but spending so much on them wouldn’t make sense if you have to replace them ever so often. So, do dental implants need to be replaced? Well, keep reading to find out.

How Long Do Dental Implants Last?

Dental implants last anywhere from ten to thirty years, depending on the type of implants you get and your overall dental health. Your implants will probably last a lifetime, depending on the age at which you get them. It’s worth noting that implants are available for anyone above eighteen, even the elderly, provided they have sufficient jawbone density.

Despite their longevity, it’s common practice to replace dental implants if they fail, sometimes prematurely. However, replacement is easy and not nearly as complicated as dental implant surgery.

Signs That Your Dental Implants Need to Be Replaced

Dental implants don’t have to fall off to necessitate replacement. If you’re unsure of whether you need to replace your implants, here are a couple of signs you should:

Pain and Discomfort

Your implant may be due for replacement if you notice pain on or near the tissue surrounding the implant, especially when biting down. The pain could indicate an infection or an improper installation. Either way, consult your dentist so that they can arrange an immediate replacement. Ignoring it will only worsen the pain and lead to further complications.

The Implant Feels Loose

Does the implant feel loose when you probe it with your tongue or finger? If so, it’s probably a few days or weeks away from failure. Consult your dentist to have a prompt replacement to avoid any unpleasant surprises. Loose implants are mostly because of jaw bone loss caused by peri-implantitis.

Gum Recession

Gum recession occurs when the gums pull away from the tooth, exposing more of it. Severe gum recession can expose the dental implant. Talking to a dentist will help you determine the cause of the gum recession. The dentist will also help you decide whether replacing the gum tissue is necessary.

When Should You Call A Dentist

Call a emergency dentist in Round Rock immediately if you feel your implants are loose and sensitive to the touch. You should also do so if you notice cracks in the dental crown or severe gum recession. The dentist will advise you on the best way to address the issues or whether you need to replace your dental implants.

Let Us Handle Your Dental Implant!

Proper implant installation is imperative to your implants' longevity and functionality. It’s crucial to find professional and skilled dentists for your dental implants to avoid premature replacements and other complications down the line. Fortunately, experienced and highly proficient dentists are a phone call away.

‍Contact our Round Rock dental team today, and we’ll schedule your dental implant surgery at a time most convenient for you. Dental implants are a significant investment; don’t leave yours to chance.