Dental implants, like the Fixed on X (FoX) system, are designed to be a permanent solution for missing teeth. Most implants last well beyond ten years, and with good oral hygiene and proper care, many patients find their implants last 20 years or even a lifetime.
But like most things in life, they thrive best when you take care of them and give them a little attention.
In this guide, we’ll talk about what really affects how long implants last and how you can adopt good oral health from the outset.
What gives dental implants their durability?
Imagine building a house. The titanium implant is the foundation. The abutment is the frame. And the crown? That’s your front door. When everything fits properly and the “ground” (your bone) is solid, that house is well supported.
Generally, the titanium integrates with bone (osseointegration) for lasting stability. Once this happens, the implant acts like a natural root.
When performed by a qualified dentist, dental implants can provide stability that’s hard to match with uncomfortable dentures or bridges.
How long can you expect dental implants to last?
Here’s the part that people are most curious about: longevity. Research and clinical experience suggest that:
- The implant post itself can last 20 years or more, sometimes a lifetime.
- The crown or artificial tooth may need replacement every 10–15 years due to normal wear and tear.
It’s important to note that no treatment lasts forever, so implants are no exception.
Crowns may wear out, but that’s a small price. Replacing a crown is far less invasive and costly than replacing a tooth or dealing with the complications of missing teeth.
What can shorten an implant’s life?
Lifestyle Choices
Your daily habits make a big difference. Smoking, for example, can reduce blood flow to your gums, slow healing and increase the risk of infections.
Heavy alcohol use can also slow recovery and weaken your immune system. Minimising these habits gives your implants the best chance of lasting for many years.
Medical Conditions
Certain health issues can affect how well implants integrate with your jawbone. Gum disease (periodontal disease) weakens the bone supporting the implant.
Diabetes, osteoporosis, autoimmune conditions, or other chronic illnesses can also affect healing and increase the risk of complications. Managing these conditions with your healthcare provider is essential.
Jawbone Health
A strong, healthy jawbone is critical for implant success. Implants rely on osseointegration, the process where the titanium post fuses with your bone, to stay stable.
Low bone density may require a bone graft to create a solid foundation and improve long-term outcomes.
The Implant Procedure
How the implant is placed matters. Accurate placement ensures proper integration with the bone and reduces the risk of complications. At FoX Implant Centre, we use advanced techniques and technology to maximise precision and long-term success.
Expertise of Your Dentist
Experience counts. A well-trained implant dentist can assess your needs, place the implant in the optimal position and reduce the risk of complications. At FoX Implant Centre, our team, led by Dr Nick Trevlopoulos, brings extensive experience and personalised care to every patient.
Oral Hygiene and Maintenance
Implants require the same care as natural teeth. Brushing, flossing and professional cleanings prevent plaque buildup and infections such as peri-implantitis, which can compromise the implant over time.
Age and Overall Health
While age alone isn’t a barrier, older adults may experience slower healing or be more prone to gum disease and other health issues. Maintaining overall health supports the long-term stability of your implants.
Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)
Grinding or clenching your teeth puts extra pressure on implants and crowns, which can cause wear or damage. Using a mouthguard and regular dental monitoring can help protect your implants.
Post-Surgery Care
The first few months after surgery are critical. Following your dentist’s aftercare instructions — avoiding hard foods, being gentle with your implant site and attending follow-ups — ensures proper osseointegration and long-term stability.
Tips to keep your dental implants healthy
To ensure your dental implants last as long as possible, it is important to adopt habits that promote good oral health and maintain your implants.
Here are some tips:
Keep them clean
Brush twice a day with a soft brush, floss regularly and consider an antibacterial mouthwash. This helps prevent plaque buildup and protects the tissue around your implants.
See your dentist regularly
Check-ups let your dentist spot early issues like inflammation or bone loss, keeping your implants in top shape.
Protect against grinding
If you grind your teeth, a mouthguard can shield your implants from extra pressure.
Follow your aftercare plan
Take any prescribed medications, avoid certain foods and give your implants time to heal. Following your dentist’s instructions helps them integrate properly.
Minimise hard or sticky foods
Ice, hard candies and chewy foods can stress your implants. You should try and avoid these to prevent stress on the implant.
Quit harmful habits
Smoking and excessive alcohol can slow healing and affect implant longevity. Minimising these gives your implants the best chance to last.
Here, when you’re ready
Dental implants are one of the most reliable ways to restore missing teeth. They’re strong, natural-looking and designed for the long term.
If you’re considering implants, a consultation with a qualified dental professional can help you understand your suitability, costs and expected outcomes.
Our team is here to guide you, answer your questions and help you make an informed choice that feels right for you.
Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
FAQs
What happens if bone loss occurs later?
Bone loss around an existing dental implant can affect its stability and function. The severity and progression of bone loss depend on several factors, including oral hygiene, gum health and general health conditions. If bone loss is detected, we might recommend interventions. Ultimately, regular check-ups will allow the team to monitor bone levels around implants and recommend appropriate treatment if changes occur.
Do FoX Implant Centres offer a warranty on dental implants?
Yes. FoX Implant Centres provide a lifetime warranty on titanium implants, covering material defects and necessary repairs under normal use. Acrylic components, such as denture bases and prosthetic teeth, have a 1-year warranty. Warranty validity requires proper oral hygiene, routine check-ups and care per post-surgery instructions.
What should I expect after implant surgery?
Healing time varies depending on the procedure and individual factors. The process of the implant fusing with the jawbone usually takes several months. During this period, following your dental professional’s advice is important for supporting successful integration.
Are dental implants a worthwhile long-term investment?
Dental implants provide a fixed, stable replacement for missing teeth and can help maintain jawbone health and oral function. While crowns or abutments may require replacement over time, implants offer a long-term foundation that often requires less frequent replacement compared to removable dentures or traditional bridges.
The decision to proceed with implants should be made in consultation with a dental professional, taking into account your oral health, lifestyle and treatment goals.