Are Dental Implants Permanent?

General & Cosmetic Dentists Serving Omaha, Bellevue, Lincoln and Nearby Nebraska

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Posted: July 23, 2021
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Missing teeth call for dependable and long-lasting replacements. Dental implants are a great option that can restore the look and function of your smile for many years to come. But are they permanent? 

The short answer is that dental implants have better longevity than any alternative. With proper care, they may never need to be repaired or replaced. Here’s a closer look at what that means.

The Three Parts of a Dental Implant 

Did you know that dental implants are actually made of three different parts? Learning about the components that go into a dental implant can help you understand how long they might last.

  • Fixture: The dental implant fixture, sometimes called the post or screw, is the part that we place beneath the gums in the jawbone. It fuses with the bone to mimic the missing tooth root and create a stable base for replacement teeth. Made of titanium, the implant fixture is not susceptible to decay or damage.
     
  • Abutment: The abutment, or connector, goes on top of the dental implant. It is used to attach replacement teeth to the implant post. Often made of titanium, the abutment is resistant to wear, decay, and other common oral complications.
     
  • Restoration: Dental restorations, such as crowns, bridges, and implant-supported dentures, are the final piece of the puzzle. These go on top of the implant and abutment; they are the only part of the implant that you can see. And while they are made of strong materials such as ceramic, they are more vulnerable to damage.

The implant fixture and abutment typically last a lifetime. However, poor oral health could cause them to become loose or fall out entirely. Meanwhile, the restoration may need to be replaced if it becomes worn down, chipped, or discolored over the years. Good oral hygiene and regular dental visits will help you improve the lifespan of your dental implant and tooth restorations.

Book a Consultation with our Omaha Implant Dentists 

If you want to know more about the longevity of dental implants, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with our implant dentists. Call Hillsborough: 402-307-6227, Village Pointe: 402-505-7474, Ralston Square: 402-307-6215, or Dundee: 402-307-6220 to speak with one of our friendly team members in Omaha, Nebraska.

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