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Will My Dental Implants Last Forever?

One of the most common questions patients ask is: “How long do dental implants last?” Understandably, people want to know if implants are truly permanent, or if they may eventually need replacement.

The encouraging news is that dental implants are considered one of the longest-lasting options for replacing missing teeth. With proper care, they can often last for decades — and in some cases, for life.

How Long Do Dental Implants Usually Last?

Studies suggest that dental implants have a success rate of around 95–98% in healthy patients, and their average lifespan is commonly reported as 15 to 25 years or more.

The titanium implant post (the part placed in the jawbone) is designed to integrate with bone, and when well cared for, it may last a lifetime. The restoration on top — the crown, bridge, or denture — typically requires replacement after 10–15 years due to normal wear.

Compared to other tooth replacement options:

  • Bridges may last 7–10 years.
  • Dentures often last 5–8 years before needing relining or replacement.
  • Implants are generally regarded as the most durable long-term option.

What Can Affect the Lifespan of Dental Implants?

Several factors may influence how long your implants last:

Oral hygiene and maintenance

Like natural teeth, implants benefit from daily brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings. Inadequate care may contribute to gum disease or peri-implantitis, which can shorten lifespan.

Lifestyle habits

Smoking, teeth grinding (bruxism), and poor nutrition are linked to reduced implant longevity. Using a custom nightguard or mouthguard can help protect your investment.

Health conditions

Uncontrolled diabetes, osteoporosis, and gum disease can affect bone health and healing, making implant success less predictable.

Materials and placement

Research suggests that the type of implant, the quality of the restoration, and the precision of placement can all play a role in long-term outcomes.

Can Dental Implants Last a Lifetime?

Yes — the implant post itself has the potential to last a lifetime with the right care and conditions. It fuses with your jawbone through a process called osseointegration, creating a stable foundation similar to a natural tooth root.

That said, the crown or bridge on top usually needs to be replaced every 10–15 years. Replacing these restorations is typically straightforward compared to replacing the implant itself.

How to Help Dental Implants Last Longer

Patients can take several steps to support implant longevity:

  • Visit your dentist every 6 months for exams and cleanings.
  • Brush and floss daily — especially around the implant.
  • Wear a nightguard if you grind or clench your teeth.
  • Avoid smoking, as it can lower implant success rates.
  • Maintain a balanced diet that supports bone and gum health.

Signs Your Dental Implant May Need Attention

Dental implants are designed to be durable, but they aren’t entirely maintenance-free. Contact your dentist if you notice:

  • Pain, swelling, or tenderness around the implant site.
  • Receding gums or changes in appearance.
  • Any looseness or movement of the implant.
  • Difficulty chewing or biting.

Prompt care can often resolve issues before they progress.

Why Many Calgary Patients Choose Skypointe Dental

At Skypointe Dental, we provide dental implant treatments designed to restore function and appearance while supporting long-term oral health. Our team uses advanced technology and patient-centered planning to help maximize outcomes.

We are committed to guiding patients through every stage — from consultation and surgery to long-term maintenance.

Book a Dental Implant Consultation in Calgary NE

If you’re considering dental implants, it’s natural to wonder how long they may last. With consistent care and regular follow-ups, implants can often provide decades of comfort and function.

📞 Contact Skypointe Dental today to book your dental implant consultation in Calgary NE.

Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are located at the back of the mouth and typically emerge between the ages of 17 and 25. While some people have enough room for their wisdom teeth to grow in without issue, many others experience pain, infection, and other problems that require wisdom tooth removal.

If you're one of the many people who need wisdom teeth removal, you may be wondering how long it will take to recover. Most people find the pain and swelling from wisdom teeth surgery subsides within 3–5 days, but it can take up to 2 weeks to fully recover.

Wisdom Tooth Removal Recovery Time

The average recovery time for wisdom tooth extraction is typically only a few days before most people start feeling better. Although, some people may experience discomfort for longer periods because we all recover a little differently. 

It’s important to follow your dentist’s specific instructions for recovery because we can provide advice based on our first-hand knowledge of your particular needs and personal health.

What Happens After Your Wisdom Teeth Are Removed?

Wisdom teeth removal is typically a relatively quick procedure. All 4 teeth can usually be removed within an hour, but recovering after the procedure is over is an equally important part of the process.

Pain Management

Pain management is an important part of recovery after wisdom tooth extraction. Over-the-counter pain medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help relieve discomfort caused by inflammation and the procedure itself.

Your dentist may also prescribe stronger pain relievers in some cases. It’s important to follow your dentist’s or pharmacist's instructions with prescription painkillers, as they are typically much stronger than OTC medications and may require specific dosages.

Additionally, applying a cold compress to the affected area can help reduce pain and swelling.

Diet

What you eat and drink after surgery can affect your recovery. Stick to soft foods like soup, mashed potatoes, and yogurt for the first few days. Avoid hot and spicy foods, as well as crunchy or chewy foods that could irritate the surgical area. Drink plenty of water, but avoid using a straw for at least a day, as suction can dislodge the blood clots in your mouth.

There are a few foods and habits you should avoid for at least 24 hours following the extraction, as they can lead to complications or prolong the healing process, including:

  • Caffeinated beverages
  • Alcohol
  • Hot drinks
  • Tobacco use—including smoking and vaping
  • Rinsing your mouth and spitting

Oral Hygiene

Keeping your mouth clean is essential for proper healing after wisdom tooth removal. Brush your teeth gently and avoid the surgical area for the first few days. You can also rinse your mouth with warm salt water to promote healing. 

Be sure to follow your dentist's instructions for post-operative care. We can recommend a modified oral hygiene routine for a few days to allow your mouth to begin healing.

Follow-Up Visits

Finally, it's important to attend any follow-up visits with your dentist. These appointments allow us to monitor your healing progress and confirm everything is going according to plan. During these visits, we may prescribe an antibiotic to prevent or fight an infection if pain, bleeding, or swelling has not decreased.

Always follow your dentist's post-operative instructions carefully to avoid complications such as dry sockets, which can prolong your recovery time.

A woman using a warm compress to soothe wisdom tooth removal pain.

How Long Does It Take to Fully Recover from Wisdom Tooth Surgery?

Many people experience relief from their discomfort within 3–5 days, but it can take up to 2 weeks to fully recover from the procedure if there are any complications during the surgery or during recovery.

You should ultimately refer to your dentist on when you can return to normal activity, especially a physical job or high-intensity sports. But a few signs your recovery is going well may include:

  • A continued decrease in swelling, bruising, or pain in your mouth and cheeks
  • Jaw mobility (being able to open and close it comfortably) returning to normal
  • No more tingling, bleeding, or bad taste left in your mouth

Talk with Your Dentist About Wisdom Tooth Extraction

Recovering from wisdom teeth extraction is a process that requires patience and careful attention to your dental health. If you notice symptoms worsening or not improving after the 3rd or 4th day, you should reach out to your dentist so they can examine your mouth.

If you haven’t had your wisdom teeth out yet and you’re simply looking ahead to see what to expect, don’t let the things you read today discourage you. Wisdom tooth extraction is a common procedure, and we can provide you with relevant, personalized information surrounding any potential risks versus the potential benefits of having the surgery.

Give us a call at Skypointe Dental to book an exam. One of our experienced dentists can review your needs with you and answer your questions about wisdom tooth removal.

SkyPointe Dental | Calgary NE | Dentist | Dental Clinic | Dental Office | Dental Practice

ADDRESS
6004 Country Hills Blvd NE, #1510, Calgary, AB T3N 1T8

PHONE
(403) 475-1222

HOURS
Tue: 12pm - 8pm | Wed: 10am - 7pm | Thu: 10am – 6pm | Fri: 9am – 5pm | Sat: 9am - 5pm | Sun, Mon & Holidays: Closed

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