Ask ten websites how long dental implants last and you'll get ten confident, different answers. The honest one: with good planning and good care, the implant itself can last decades — often a lifetime. The crown on top typically serves ten to fifteen years before it may need refreshing, much like any well-used restoration.
What the research actually shows
Long-term studies consistently report implant survival rates above 90 percent at ten years, and many of the earliest modern implants placed in the 1980s and 90s are still in function today. In dentistry, that is about as close to permanent as anything gets.
What makes implants fail
Failures cluster around a handful of causes: uncontrolled gum disease around the implant, smoking, poorly managed diabetes, and insufficient bone at the outset. Notice the pattern — most are manageable or preventable with planning and maintenance.
The maintenance that matters
An implant can't decay, but the gum around it can absolutely become inflamed. Six-monthly professional cleans, daily brushing and cleaning between teeth are non-negotiable. Think of it less like buying a product and more like adopting a very small, very loyal pet.
Is an implant right for you?
For most missing teeth, an implant is the closest thing to getting your own tooth back — it preserves bone, doesn't rely on neighbouring teeth, and restores full biting strength. The right first step is a thorough assessment of your bone, gums and general health. Book a consultation and we'll map your options honestly, implants included or not.
Glebe Park Dental · Canberra City