Restorative Dentistry |4 min read

How Long Do Dental Implants Last?

A young female wearing glasses and smiling happily after her dental implant treatment

Are dental implants really a lifelong solution?

Missing teeth can make everyday life harder than it should be.

Eating, speaking, and even smiling can feel like a challenge.

If you’re considering dental implantsThis link leads to Dental Implants page in South Dakota, you probably want to know how long they’ll last. After all, this is a big investment in your oral health and confidence.

At Neighborhood DentalThis link leads to Home page, we believe in giving patients clear answers so they can make informed decisions.

Let’s talk about what affects the lifespan of dental implants and why they could be your best tooth replacement option.

Key takeaways

  • Dental implants can last decades or even a lifetime with proper care.
  • The success of your implant depends on placement, hygiene, and lifestyle.
  • Unlike dentures, implants are permanently attached and function like real teeth.
  • Neighborhood Dental offers expert implant placement in South Dakota.

How long do dental implants last?

Dental implants are designed to be a long-term solution. Most patients can expect them to last at least 20 to 30 years, but many keep their implants for life.

The titanium post that replaces the tooth root fuses with the jawbone, creating a stable and durable foundation. The key to longevity is good oral health and regular dental visits.

At Neighborhood Dental, we ensure that every step of your dental implant placement is done precisely, setting you up for long-term success.

A digital image of the three separate parts of a dental implant

What factors affect implant longevity?

Several factors determine how long dental implantsThis link leads to the Dental Implants page last. While implants are strong, their success depends on how well you care for them.

  • Oral hygiene—Brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings prevent gum disease, which can weaken the implant structure.
  • Bone health—A strong jawbone supports the implant. Bone loss can lead to implant failure over time.
  • Lifestyle habits—Smoking, poor diet, and teeth grinding put extra stress on implants.
  • Placement technique—A skilled dentist ensures correct positioning for maximum stability and function.
  • Regular checkups—Routine exams help catch any issues early, keeping your implants in top shape.

At Neighborhood Dental, we take every step to ensure your implants in South DakotaThis link leads to Locations page have the best chance of lasting a lifetime.

Do dental implants feel like real teeth?

Yes! One of the biggest benefits of dental implants is that they look, feel, and function like natural teeth. Unlike denturesThis link leads to Dentures page, which can shift or feel bulky, dental implant placements are permanently attached.

You can eat, talk, and smile without worrying about movement.

The crown on top of the implant is custom-made to match your natural teeth, blending seamlessly into your smile.

A 3D render of a dental implant between natural teeth

Can implants fail?

While rare, implant failure can happen. Common reasons include poor oral hygiene, gum disease, and bone loss. In some cases, a failed implant can be replaced after proper healing.

At Neighborhood Dental, our team uses advanced technology to assess your jawbone and gum health before proceeding with treatment. This ensures the highest success rate possible.

How does implant placement work?

The process happens in stages. First, we place the titanium post into the jawbone. Over several months, the bone fuses with the implant, securing it in place. After healing, a custom crown is attached, completing the restoration.

At Neighborhood Dental, our skilled team performs implant procedures across South Dakota, including Rapid City and Sioux Falls.

We offer a free consultation to determine if implants are right for you.

Are dental implants worth it?

Absolutely. Dental implants restore function, prevent bone loss, and improve your appearance. Unlike traditional dentures, they provide long-term solutions and comfort.

Choosing implants means choosing a secure, lifelong investment in your smile and overall health.

What can I expect after completing the dental implant process?

After completing the dental implant process, you’ll enjoy a restored smile. You’ll have new teeth that look and feel natural, and your oral health will improve.

You’ll be able to eat and speak with confidence. You might experience a boost in appearance and a more positive sense of self.

Once the procedure is done, we’ll provide aftercare instructions. This helps ensure your implants heal properly.

You’ll need to maintain good oral hygiene, including regular checkups at Neighborhood Dental for us to monitor your implants. This helps ensure their longevity.

We’ve seen many patients leave our South Dakota locations with smiles they love, and we’re positive you’ll love yours, too.

Ready to replace your missing teeth?

Don’t let missing teeth hold you back. Neighborhood Dental has locationsThis link leads to Locations page in South Dakota, making it easy to schedule a consultation.

Our team will discuss your options, review your oral health, and determine your best treatment plan.

Your new teeth are just an appointment away!

As your local best dentistThis link opens a new tab to The Local Best website in South Dakota, Neighborhood Dental has multiple locations for your convenience, including Sioux Falls, Harrisburg, Brandon, Tea, Beresford, and Yankton. We happily welcome patients of all ages.