As implants are similar to natural teeth, if they are looked after they should last for many years but there is no lifetime guarantee. There is a small chance that an implant fails to osseo-integrate, that is, it does not become attached to the bone. In the upper jaw the chances of this happening are approximately 1-2%. We would normally become aware of this during the healing phase after implant placement and should it happen, we would remove the implant and may need to place another, several weeks later. Once integrated and functioning, you have in excess of a 90% chance of any implant still performing fine after 25 years. Therefore implants are a long term and predictable treatment option.

As with natural teeth implants need to be looked after and regular check-ups are essential to prolong their life. You should look after implants much the same as natural teeth but you should pay particular attention to the implant sites. Brushing twice a day, flossing and regular hygiene appointments will help keep them healthy. An annual implant review is very important to check the quality of bone and gum health around the implant area.

You may be told by a dentist that all dental implants are made of titanium and are therefore all the same. While it is true that most dental implants are made of titanium manufacturing quality standards can vary greatly. Dentsply products have the backup of many scientific research and clinical studies. They are used world wide by many of the most respected implant providers.

The key to successful implants is the quality and quantity of bone and we sometimes have to provide a replacement for a deficiency of bone and this usually takes the form of a small augmentation around the neck of the implant. Depending on the size of this deficiency, we can usually carry this out at the same time as implant placement.