According to various published studies, Dental implants seem to be more durable than bridges or removable prostheses.
In the same way as for a natural tooth, it is difficult to predict the lifespan of an implant as this depends on a large number of factors.
The following factors affect the success of implant treatment:
- quality and balance of the prosthetic teeth on the implant.
- distribution of forces in the implant.
- bone quality.
- patient’s oral and dental hygiene.
- how frequently check-ups are performed.
There are some very interesting studies about the long-term success rate of the treatment, for example the 2006 study by Lekholm & Coll. :
- The study was conducted over a period of 20 years.
- Implant survival rate was 91% at 20 years. In other words, a patient who has implants has a 9 in 10 chance of still having the same implants and implant prostheses in 20 years’ time.
- Implant treatment is the most reliable prosthetic treatment in many situations.
What are the risks and complications?
- The majority of complications occur in the first few months of healing and osseointegration. This is often due to deficient osseointegration as a result of fibrous tissue interposition.
- The implant is mobile and painful.
- It has to be taken out under local anaesthetic.
- A new implant can generally be re-mounted a few weeks or months after healing has taken place.
Remember
Dental implants are a proven and reliable technique.
There are few contraindications to surgery.