Treatments

How long do dental implants last?

Reviewed by Dr. Samuel Bacon, DDS (dentist). Last reviewed November 3, 2026.

Status: Approved

Short answer: An implant is designed to be a long-term tooth replacement, but there's no set lifespan. How long it lasts depends on your health, your bone, whether you smoke, and how well you clean around it. The crown on top can wear and may need repair or replacement at some point. Regular checkups help catch problems early.

What affects how long an implant lasts

The FDA lists factors that can affect long-term success:

  • Smoking. It may slow healing and decrease the long-term success of the implant.
  • Daily cleaning. Regularly cleaning the implant and the teeth around it is very important.
  • Health conditions. Uncontrolled diabetes and untreated gum disease are listed risks.
  • Mechanical issues. A loosening abutment screw can make the tooth feel loose or like it's twisting.

The implant vs. the tooth on top

The implant post is held in the jaw by bone that grows around it, a process the ADA calls osseointegration. The crown, bridge or denture attached to it is a separate part that can chip or wear over time.

Warning signs

The FDA advises telling your dental provider right away if an implant feels loose or painful. Swelling, bleeding or pain around an implant should be checked promptly.

At Indy Smile Group

All three of our offices place and restore dental implants in-house, and we keep an eye on implants at your regular checkups and cleanings. See our dental implant pages for Fishers, Carmel and North Indy. Learn about our recare visits.

Next step

Ready to talk it through with a dentist? Book online or call the office closest to you.

Frequently asked questions

Can an implant fail years later?
Yes. The FDA notes complications can happen soon after placement or much later. Some lead to the implant loosening.

Do implants need special cleaning?
Clean them every day like natural teeth, plus any aids your dentist recommends. The FDA stresses regular cleaning for long-term success.

Can implants get cavities?
The implant itself can't decay, but the gums and bone around it can still get infected. Daily cleaning and checkups matter.

Sources

  1. FDA – Dental Implants: What You Should Know
  2. ADA MouthHealthy – Implants

Last reviewed: November 3, 2026
Reviewed by: Dr. Samuel Bacon, DDS (dentist)

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