How Long Do Denture Implants Last Compared to Regular Dentures?

When edentulous people look for teeth replacement options, they particularly look at the chosen prosthesis’ lifespan. It’s even more important in the case of full arch/mouth devices as these are wider scale replacements and hence require larger investments. Of course one would want their investment to last long enough to at least justify the treatment cost, if not a lifetime.

This is where permanent dentures (also known as denture implants or implant supported dentures) come in!  It combines comfort, functionality and aesthetics all in one place, while also promising commendable longevity. 

Now, the golden question is: how long do denture implants last to be precise? This is something patients are interested in knowing, as the promise of “long lasting prosthesis” sounds a bit too vague to be trusted. Patients need to know for sure what this promise entails. 

Moreover, they want to know if the lifespan is long enough in comparison to that of regular dentures, so they may feel truly confident in spending extra on implants.  Sounds relatable? If yes, you should read this blog.  In this blog, we’ll discuss the lifespan of denture implants in comparison to regular dentures lifespan, giving you a full picture of the subject.

What Are Denture Implants?

It’s worthwhile to have a little bit of an overview of denture implants before we jump on the main topic. Basically, denture implants are dentures (full arch artificial teeth arranged over a pink, gum colored base) that are supported by dental implants placed in the jawbone. That’s exactly why they’re called implant supported dentures. Dental implants are artificial tooth roots, for context. 

These artificial roots are made of a biocompatible material (like Zirconia or Titanium) and are surgically substituted for the lost tooth roots in those parts of the jawbone that are affected by tooth loss. 

The goal is to supply a solid anchorage for artificial teeth that could hold the teeth firmly and permanently within the jaw (the same way that real tooth roots hold real teeth). 

Implants don’t only imitate tooth roots in the sense of physically supporting teeth but also serve other functions such as:

• Improving the prosthesis’ bite strength. This is due to the strength and stability provided by implants.
• Letting the patient speak fluently, without any lisps or interruptions. This is again due to the support of implants.
• Giving the prosthesis a comfortable and precise fit with the jawbone, which in turn gives it a natural look. 
• Stimulating the jawbone to keep it structurally healthy and strong.
• Enabling the dentures to be durable and long lasting.

All of these benefits, combined, make denture implants a truly permanent and holistic replacement to missing teeth in all aspects (aesthetics, functionality, comfort, durability and lifespan). No wonder most edentulous patients now prefer denture implants over regular gum supported dentures.

What’s The Average Lifespan Of Implant Dentures?

Let’s get back to our main question now that we have all the necessary context to answer it. Denture implants are highly commended for being long lasting (which is one of their major benefits as mentioned above) and are frequently given superior status over regular dentures for the same. However, the idea of being long lasting itself isn’t satisfying enough for patients. They need to know “exactly” how much the device can last so they can have clear expectations in mind. 

So, here’s the answer: implant dentures can last up to 20 years or more (on average)! And this isn’t just hearsay or clinical speculation. It’s based on actual documented trials and evidence based studies! The average documented lifespan is about 20 years for implant dentures (specifically), though implants can generally last several decades.

Note that the mentioned lifespan applies only to dental implants (the fixtures that hold the denture). It doesn’t apply to the denture itself, as the denture might eventually need relining/replacement every 10-15 years or so depending on usage and wear and tear.

Can Implants Last A Lifetime?

“Why are implants touted as being permanent and lasting a lifetime if their average lifespan is around 20 years?” You might wonder. Well, first of all, the term “permanent” refers to the permanent placement of implant fixtures in the jawbone, which is what allows implants to deliver all their exception benefits. It doesn’t have to be interpreted in the sense of implants lasting a lifetime. 

However, implants “can” indeed last a lifetime if they’re diligently cared for and if the patient’s health and lifestyle habits consistently favor it. But it’s a perfect case scenario which doesn’t always happen, which is why dentists usually quote the average lifespan.

Implant Dentures Lifespan VS Regular Dentures 

The above information is incomplete (and perhaps unhelpful) if we don’t put it in comparison with regular dentures. Because why would you spend extra money on implants if you’re not sure if the comparative value of the investment is worthwhile?  Let’s clarify this last bit of confusion for you.

Implant dentures not only outperform regular dentures when it comes to lifespan, but it does so very significantly! If you look at the lifespan of regular dentures, the maximum number you’ll see is 10 years.

For implant dentures, the minimum average is 20 years which is clearly double as compared to regular dentures. As far as the maximum lifespan is concerned, we’ve seen that it’s limitless (as implants can possibly last a lifetime).  Even though you might still have to get a replacement for the prosthesis every 10-15 years, the consistent support of implants will make the prosthesis highly efficient in everyday functionality, which isn’t at all comparable to regular denture functionality.

Conclusion 

To conclude, the lifespan of denture implants is definitely superior to that of regular dentures. The former can last more than 20 years on average (can even last a lifetime in some cases) whereas the latter only delivers 10 years of usage at best. So, getting implant dentures is truly a win-win.

Excited to get your teeth permanently replaced? Schedule a FREE consultation with Dental Care And Implants, a premium dental practice located in Texas, USA. Talk to our team of implant experts and pave your way to a healthy and beautiful smile!