How Long Do Implant Retained Dentures Last?
When deciding what treatment option to pursue to correct missing teeth, some of the most important factors to consider are the cost of the treatment, how long the treatment process will take from start to finish, what the aesthetic appearance and functionality each solution will provide, and last, but perhaps most importantly, how durable and long-lasting will the treatment be?
While traditional dentures provide patients with a cost affordable solution and results that are almost immediate, the long-term drawbacks of traditional dentures is important to keep in mind. Because traditional dentures do not provide the jawbone with the stimulation necessary to prevent atrophy, over time the patient’s jawbone will begin to deteriorate and change shape, which will necessitate a fitting for a new denture. Over time, this new denture will also need to be refitted as the jawbone continues to deteriorate. Patients who want a longer-lasting solution that is still cost affordable may want to consider implant retained dentures.
Caring for Your Implant Retained Denture
If proper oral hygiene habits are closely followed, implant retained dentures will last an average of fifteen years or longer, barring any physical trauma or the development of complications. In addition to practicing your normal oral hygiene routine of brushing and flossing your remaining natural teeth on a daily basis, it is important to carefully clean around the implant and the surface of your denture with a soft-bristle toothbrush and to store your implant retained dentures in water while not wearing them. People with implant retained dentures should also be mindful to rinse their mouth with water following every meal in order to remove any food or debris that may accumulate under and around the implant. If these particle are not removed, there is an increased risk of developing peri-implantitis. Sleeping with your implant retained denture also increases your risk of developing complications.
Along with proper maintenance, your lifestyle habits will also play a large role in how long your implant retained dentures will last. To prolong their longevity, eat a well-balanced diet and avoid foods that are high in starch or sugars. It is also a good idea to limit or avoid foods that are extremely hard, crunchy, or chewy, as these will increase the risk of damaging your denture. While it is unlikely that your implant will require a replacement earlier than fifteen years, the crown of your implant is much more susceptible to wear and tear and will likely require replacement within seven years or so.
Though unlikely, implant retained dentures can fail prematurely and require immediate intervention. If you notice any of the following issues, contact your periodontist to schedule an evaluation of your implant to determine if issues have developed that need to be addressed:
- Severe pain and/or discomfort
- Swollen gums
- Bruxism or teeth grinding
- Difficulty biting or chewing
- Gum recession around the implant
- Loss of taste
- Tingling sensation around the implant
- Implant feels loose or has shifted
While the risk of any of these issues occurring is low, it is important to be aware of them and, should they present themselves, address them before they develop into larger issues. Doing so will ensure the overall health of your teeth and prolong the lifespan of your implant retained denture.