There are two types of dental implants, endosteal and subperiosteal. Endosteal implants are placed directly into the jawbone and are the most common option for patients seeking a permanent tooth replacement solution. Subperiosteal implants have a lower success rate, as they're placed under gum tissue but not directly into the bone. Endosteal implants are the most common type in the United States, so we'll focus on looking at their success rate.
It's commonly accepted that dental implants have a five-year success rate of approximately 95%. Lower jaw implants have a slight edge over upper jaw implants, as the lower portion of the jaw is more dense with bone and makes osseointegration more predictable. Before deciding to go through with implantation, patients should familiarize themselves with the best practices to boost the success rate and avoid preventable implant failure.
What Determines the Success Rate of Implants?
Dental implants function as natural teeth, meaning that they still need to be properly cared for by brushing, flossing, and receiving regular dental cleanings. Implants are an investment and they can last for decades when taken care of correctly.
Dental implants can fail for several reasons, such as poor positioning, infection, and a lack of oral health hygiene. Implant dentists will prescribe antimicrobial rinses and even antibiotics to decrease the risk of infection post-procedure and patients should follow their dentist's recommendations when it comes to good hygiene habits.
A patient's age can also affect the success rate, with younger patients under the age of 40 seeing the highest success across the board. As a patient ages, their gums and bones can become more deteriorated. This doesn't affect the many individuals in their 60s, 70s, and beyond who successfully heal from the procedure, however!
Patients who smoke regularly or suffer from diabetes are at a higher risk of poor healing times. This increases the likelihood of an infection, resulting in an increased risk of implant failure. Discuss your medical history with your doctor and whether or not you smoke, as they need the full picture to make a professional recommendation of whether implants are the right choice for you.
Do You Have Questions About the Dental Implant Procedure?
The team at Rosen Dental PC is available to answer any questions you may have about dental implants. Our doctors have extensive experience and strive to provide patient-centered care in a comfortable, relaxed environment. To schedule a consultation, contact our office and we'd be happy to work with your schedule to get you on the calendar. No procedure is without risk or 100% guaranteed but when you choose an experienced, well-trained doctor — you can rest assured that your dental care is in the best hands.