Over the decades dentistry has evolved, and with it replacement of missing teeth. From this evolution, dental implants have become the standard bearer for tooth replacement, surpassing dentures and other traditional replacement techniques in chewing strength and speaking patterns as we have noted in previous blog entries. The question that still remains for many is “are dental implants worth the investment?” After all, how long can they last anyway?
Dental implants consist of three basic parts, the implant itself (the screw portion that is surgically placed in the jaw-bone), the abutment (the attachment between the implant and the tooth) and the crown (the tooth component).1,2 Dental implants have been around far longer than you might think, but advances in their technology, both in construction and in placement techniques, has made them the desirable option for many when it comes to tooth replacement.
Unlike dentures, which need to be maintenance and replaced regularly, dental implants have been shown by recent studies indicate over a 90% chance that dental implants last 10 years or more when properly cared for.2,3 Ultimately, just like your natural teeth, how long dental implants last comes down to how well you take care of them and yourself. There are a variety of factors that influence the longevity and health of your dental implant, and, therefore, the value of your investment.
For example, habits such as smoking, bone and tissue quality going into implant placement, and even medical history (history of diabetes or other chronic conditions), can greatly decrease the longevity of your dental implant. However, healthy practices such as regular brushing and flossing, routine dental checkups, and recommended maintenance on your dental implant with your oral surgeon can expand the life of your implant and greatly improve your overall return on investment!
All that sounds great, but what about in an aging population? A 2015 study by Becker et al showed that even patients with mean ages 84 and 83 for males and females respectively showed excellent implant survival rates for implants placed between 1996 and 2013.4 While this study is a small sample size in the great scheme of things, it is worth noting that older populations (over age 75) showed similar implant survival rates at 5 years post operative compared to their counterparts age 65-75 despite older populations having increased morbidity and health related factors.5
Sure, dental implants may cost a bit more up front, but when you factor in all of the benefits that come with dental implant use as opposed to traditional tooth replacement techniques, each cent invested is money well spent! Ultimately, the choice is yours. Will you choose the short term inexpensive quick fix, or will you instead invest in yourself, your health, and your smile, and strive for a long-term solution that keeps giving back to you each and every year?
Contact Dr. Polyakov and the experts at Synergy Dental Implant and Oral Surgery Center today and let’s discuss which solution is right for you!
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Implants
How long do dental implants typically last?
Research shows that more than 90% of dental implants remain successful for at least 10 years or longer when properly maintained.
What are the parts of a dental implant?
A dental implant has three main components. The implant post is a small screw placed in the jawbone that acts as the artificial tooth root. The abutment connects the implant to the replacement tooth. Finally, the crown is the visible tooth-like restoration attached to the abutment that restores the appearance and function of your smile.
What factors can affect the lifespan of a dental implant?
Several factors can influence how long a dental implant lasts. Habits such as smoking, underlying medical conditions such as diabetes, and bone quality at the implant site may affect long-term success. Proper brushing and flossing, routine dental checkups, and following your oral surgeon’s care instructions can significantly improve implant longevity.
Are dental implants successful in older patients?
Yes. Studies have shown that dental implants can be highly successful even in older adults, including patients in their 80s. Research evaluating implants placed over many years found strong survival rates in older populations, suggesting age alone does not prevent successful implant treatment.
Are dental implants worth the investment compared to dentures?
Although dental implants typically have a higher initial cost than traditional dentures, they provide several long-term benefits. Implants can offer greater stability, improved chewing ability, and more natural speech, while also helping preserve jawbone structure. Because they are designed to last many years, many patients view implants as a valuable long-term investment in their oral health.
- US. Food and Drug Administration. Dental implants: What you should know. Updated October 29, 2021. Accessed April 15, 2026. https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/dental-devices/dental-implants-what-you-should-know
- Leong D, Yap A, Tay J, Tan W. A patient’s guide to dental implants. Implantdontics Pte Ltd; 2006. Accessed April 15, 2026. https://www.implantdontics.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/A-Patients-Guide-to-Dental-Implants.pdf
- Holm-Pedersen P, Lang NP, Müller F. What are the longevities of teeth and oral implants? Clin Oral Implants Res. 2007;18(suppl 3):15-19. doi:10.1111/j.1600-0501.2007.01434.x
- Becker W, Hujoel P, Becker BE, Wohrle P. Dental implants in an aged population: evaluation of periodontal health, bone loss, implant survival, and quality of life. Clin Implant Dent Relat Res. 2016;18(3):473-479. doi:10.1111/cid.12340
- Abou-Ayash S, Bjelopavlovic M, Molinero-Mourelle P, Schimmel M. Implant survival in patient populations with a mean age of 65–75 years compared to older cohorts: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Clin Oral Implants Res. 2025. doi:10.1111/clr.14456
