How Long Do Dental Implants Last Compared to Traditional Dentures?

When it comes to replacing missing teeth, it’s natural to want a solution that not only feels comfortable and looks natural, but also lasts. Many patients at Santa Martha Dental ask us the same important question: “How long do dental implants last compared to traditional dentures?” 

The answer impacts your confidence, comfort, and your lifestyle for years to come. Whether you're exploring your first tooth replacement option or you've lived with dentures and are seeking something more secure, understanding the longevity and everyday experience of these treatments can help you make the best decision for your future smile.

The Basics: Dental Implants vs. Traditional Dentures

Dentures and dental implants may both restore functionality and aesthetics, but they are fundamentally different in how they work and how long they last.

What Are Traditional Dentures?

Traditional dentures are removable appliances designed to replace multiple missing teeth. Dentures sit on your gums and are often held in place with suction or adhesive. While dentures have improved over the years, they still present some common challenges:

• Slipping during eating or speaking
• Bone loss over time due to lack of jawbone stimulation
• Need for periodic adjustment or replacement every 5-7 years
• Potential discomfort or sore spots

What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are small titanium posts that are surgically inserted into the jawbone to serve as artificial tooth roots. These posts can support crowns, bridges, or even a set of full implant-supported dentures, creating a stable and natural-feeling solution. Over time, the implant fuses with the bone in a process called osseointegration, which makes them exceptionally secure.

How Long Do Dental Implants Last?

One of the biggest advantages of dental implants is their longevity. With proper care, a dental implant post can easily last 20-30 years or even the rest of your life. The visible crown may need replacement after 10-15 years due to wear, but the implant itself can remain stable for decades.

Compare this with traditional dentures, which typically need to be replaced every 5 to 7 years due to changes in jaw shape and wear and tear. Over time, the cost and upkeep of dentures can surpass that of implants, especially when factoring in relines, adhesives, and lifestyle adjustments.

Why Do Dental Implants Last Longer?

The long-lasting nature of implants is no accident. They're designed to become part of your anatomy. Here's why they stand the test of time:

• Osseointegration: The bonding of titanium to your jaw keeps implants firmly in place.
• Material strength: Titanium is incredibly resistant to corrosion and wear.
• Preserved jawbone: Implants stimulate the bone, helping prevent the bone loss seen with dentures.
• Stable foundation: Unlike removable solutions, implants don't shift or loosen over time.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?

Most adults in good health with adequate jawbone density are candidates for implants. At Santa Martha Dental in Ontario, CA, Dr. Arturo Perez provides thorough consultations to determine the best path forward for each patient. 

As a bilingual, Spanish-speaking office, we ensure that every patient, whether they speak English or Spanish, feels informed and confident about their treatment. Some factors that might affect implant success include:

• Smoking or tobacco use
• Chronic conditions like diabetes
• Gum disease or oral infections

If dental implants aren’t a fit for you right away, don’t worry. Dr. Perez offers personalized treatment plans to help you prepare, whether that includes bone grafting or other preparatory care.

Are Dental Implants Worth the Investment?

While the upfront cost of dental implants is typically higher than traditional dentures, many patients see implants as a smarter long-term investment. The benefits go beyond longevity:

• Improved confidence in your smile and speech
• Eat all your favorite foods without worry
• Preserve your jaw structure and facial appearance
• No messy adhesives or nightly removal

At Santa Martha Dental, we believe that quality care should be accessible to every family. That’s why we offer transparent pricing with no surprises, including a $120 new patient special and a $250/year dental membership plan. These are just a few of the ways that we make advanced care like implants more affordable.

Tips for Maximizing the Life of Your Implants

If you choose to get dental implants, maintaining them is quite simple. In fact, it’s a lot like caring for natural teeth. Here are some longevity tips from our Ontario dental team:

• Brush and floss twice daily using non-abrasive products
• Schedule routine cleanings and exams every 6 months
• Avoid chewing on ice or hard substances
• Quit smoking and all types of tobacco/nicotine use, which dramatically increase implant failure risk
• Wear a nightguard if you grind your teeth

Why Choose Santa Martha Dental for Dental Implants?

Choosing a dental provider is just as important as choosing the treatment itself. At Santa Martha Dental, led by Dr. Arturo Perez, patients don’t just receive expert dentistry. They experience relationship-based care in a supportive, family-like setting. From your first consultation to your final smile, you’ll have a compassionate team by your side who communicates clearly in English and Spanish, ensuring total comfort every step of the way.

We combine advanced technology with a personalized touch, offering comprehensive services in one trusted office. Whether you need a single implant or full arch restoration, we’re here to help you rediscover your confidence with a smile that looks natural and feels just like your own.

Schedule Your Implant Consultation Today

Dental implants are more than a tooth replacement. They're a long-lasting solution that can enhance your quality of life for decades. If you’re ready to explore your options and take the first step toward a healthier, more confident smile, we invite you to contact Santa Martha Dental in Ontario, CA.

Call us today at (909) 933-3524 to schedule your consultation with Dr. Arturo Perez. Discover comfortable, lasting dentistry with a team that treats you like family. Because at Santa Martha Dental, you’re never just a patient, you’re part of our community.