What Is The Dental Implant Success Rate? Stats & Insights!

In recent times, dental implants have become a reliable choice for edentulism. It has been taking the hype due to its durability and ability to restore full functionality. No need to mention natural appearance! But how successful are they? 

Many more studies suggest that the dental implant success rate is around 90% to 95%. Sometimes, it can even surpass. However, the success rates are more likely to depend on the age and overall health of the patients and the implant choice. 

Is that enough to make an informed choice? That is, of course, a NO! It is about your oral health, and you won’t want to make a decision based on assumptions or partial info. So, read on to get a comprehensive idea of dental implant success rate. 

How Successful Is Dental Implant Surgery? Studies And Statistics!  

Dental implants are a popular solution for people who want a permanent and natural-looking way to replace missing teeth. On top of that, it has a higher success rate. Endosteal implant, with studies and systematic review showing a success rate of around 90% to 95% over 10-year survival. The numbers even surpass 95% for the people who receive them correctly placed and cared for properly. On the other hand, a 20-year meta-analysis of dental implant survival studies indicates a success rate of approximately 88%.

That means the vast majority of people have enjoyed a long-term commitment to their dental implants. However, the success rate tends to show variation depending on a number of factors. Such as health, age of the patients, and the types of implant procedures used. 

According to the systematic review and meta-analysis done between April 2021 and March 2022, the summary of the findings is as follows. 

I) Age of the patient 

Younger patients, especially those under 40 years old, who have received dental implants, have a slightly higher implant survival rate. It is for about 94.55%, whereas, for patients over 40 years old, the rate is about 89.19%. In this case, age-related health issues and the healing process in different ages generally play a role.

II) Implant location 

Placement of the implant also influences the success rate. Zirconia or titanium implants in the lower jaw (mandible) tend to have a better survival rate of about 93.33%. Compared to it, the patient who has dental implants placed in the upper jaw (maxilla) has shown an implant survival rate of about 89.70%.. 

III) Position of the implant 

Posterior or back teeth implants are 94.80% successful. However, the front teeth (anterior) and premolar dental implants have slightly lower success rates than the back implants. The study suggests the success rate in this case is 87.50% and 84.21%, respectively. 

IV) Implant placement timing

According to the study, delayed implants have a higher success rate of 95.19%. Here, delayed implanplaced after the jaw bone’s healingaling of the jaw bone. In contrast, immediate implant placement, where the implant has been placed right after the tooth extraction, has a lower success rate. Here, the dental implant survival rate is around 77.27%. 

V) The length of the implants 

Different types of dental implants show differences in the success rate. According to survival analysis, shorter implants (less than 10 mm) outperform the longer ones in terms of success rate. Shorter implants tend to have 92.75% survival rates compared to implants longer than 13 mm. The success rate is around 81.81%. 

Factors That Enhance The Dental Implant Success Rate

Overall, dental implants are a highly successful procedure., Backed with studies, there is no doubt! They can even last for a lifetime for many people. However, some factors cansome factors that can influence the survival and success rate of dental implants. Check it out below. 

Patient Selection and Preoperative Evaluation

A successful dental procedure begins with a thorough preoperative evaluation, patient selection, and identification of any risk factors for the implant. The criteria for dental implants generally include:

• Sufficient bone volume

• Absence of severe systemic diseases.

• Good oral health

The doctors need to ensure the patient has enough healthy bone and has no serious health problems. Here, bone density is important. That is because low bone density can lead to implant failure. 

Moreover, people with diabetes or smokers face an even higher risk. Due to smoking, the failure risks increased about three times, caused by the negative effect of nicotine on osseointegration and delayed healing. 

Implant Design and Material Selection

Coming to the next- implant selection. Dental implant success mostly depends on the design and material choice of the implants. 

For instance, Titanium alloy. It is typically strong and durable. It is commonly used but may not be aesthetic because of its metallic color. On the other hand, Zirconia implants are more natural-looking. However, they are expensive and less durable. 

In addition to the material itself, implant surface treatment technology also plays a role in enhancing osseointegration. For example, SLA (Sandblasted Large-grit Acid-etched) technology helps the implants to integrate with the bone faster. 

Precision in Surgical Planning and Surgeon Expertise

Dental implant surgery is more successful with the technology. Advances in digital dentistry, like computer-guided surgery and CBCT scans, have offered a new dimension to the treatment protocols. With CBCT scans, doctors can get 3D images. It helps themes and nerves clearly. The ultimate result is reduced mistakes! Computer-guided surgery uses special tools to place implants more accurately. These technologies ensure better results with fewer complications.

That’s not it! The surgeon’s expertise also has a significant impact on the dental implant success rate. Studies show that a surgeon who has completed 500+ dental implant surgeries can achieve an over 95% success rate. On the other hand, the survival rate of dental implants is only around 80% with a surgeon who has completed less than 100 dental implant surgeries. 

Aseptic Techniques and Infection Control

When it comes to the success of dental implant surgery, infection affects the success rate. Here, peri-implantitis prevention is a top priority as it can lead to implant failure. A sterile environment through disinfection and sterilization of instruments markedly reduces the risk of infection. It enhances the overall success of the implant.

Comparison Of Implants With Other Tooth Replacement Options

Dental implants are the leading option for bone replacement due to their higher success rate. However, there are some other options available. For instance, 

• Fixed Dental Bridges

• Removable Partial Dentures

• Traditional Dentures

Studies show that dental bridges are 94% lasting for three years. However, over five years, the survival rate slightly decreases from 89% to 91%. After ten years, it drops to 79% and 82%.

As for the reversible partial dentures, the survival rate is 93.2% at 10 years and 68.6% at 20 years. The survival rate is between 38% and 100% for complete dentures between 1 and 20 years or more. 

Bonus: Let’s have a quick comparison overview of dental implants and other replacement options to help you with your decision. 

Why Are Implants A Long-Term Investment In Oral Health?

Dental implants have shown themselves to be successful in the majority of cases and have offered results that last for a long time. These reasons make dental implants the most reliable choice when it comes to replacing a missing tooth.

• Dental implants have a long-term survival and can last for decades, for at least 20 years with proper care and maintenance. The number of implants doesn’t matter at all. 

• Implant failure cases are very rare. That is especially reliable for patients with the proper treatment planning. 

• The most impressive and notable reason is that implants feel just like your natural teeth. They can even handle the bite pressure like the natural ones. 

• The advancements in the implant materials, coatings of their surface, and surgical outcomes have led to reliable results over the years. 

• Dental implants are very easy to clean— only regular brushing and flossing are needed. It makes them easier to maintain compared to those needed for removable dentures. 

• Dental implants can enhance your oral health and your ability to eat different types of food. Moreover, it boosts self-confidence and greatly enhances the quality of life. 

Why Do Some Dental Implants Fail?

When it comes to dental implants, implant loss or proportion of failed implants is relatively very low. But they occur! Studies show that the dental implant failure rate can range from 1% to 19%. 5% to 10% of implants may fail within days, weeks, months, or even years after the procedure. 

In another study from 2014 to 2020, among 376 implant patients, 12 failures were recorded. It equates to an overall failure rate of 3.11% within a 6 follow-up. 

But what’s the reason for these risks of implant and cracks in the success rate? Below are the common causes. 

1. Misalignment Of The Implant

One of the most challenging aspects of implant dentistry is positioning the implants correctly. Sometimes, it also happens that the ideal position in the bone may not be the ideal position for the implants. 

So, they end up misaligned. When the implant is not properly aligned, it can lead to complications. Ultimately, dental implant failure occurs over time. That describes the importance of getting it right the first time in the right hands. 

2. Poorly Taken Impressions

Poorly taken impressions can result in the ill-fitting of the implant teeth. It causes a gap between the gum and the crown. Just a subtle misfit can affect both the appearance and function of the implant. It allows the bacteria to enter and cause infection, decreasing the survival rate of implants. Ill-fitted implants can be treated, but sometimes may need to be replaced. 

3. Peri-implantitis and Other Infections

Peri-implantitis is the most common cause of implant failure. Poor oral hygiene and other factors cause bacteria to build up around the implant. These bacteria produce noxious substances, leading to inflammation. Ultimately, peri-implantitis develops, which contributes to rapid bone loss. Eventually, the implant becomes loose and fails if left untreated. 

4. Failed Osseointegration

The success of dental implants mostly depends on osseointegration [the process of the implant fusing with the jawbone]. Poor oral hygiene, infections, insufficient bone, or poor bone quality osseointegration failure. The ultimate result? – The dental implant won’t be successful! 

5. Failure Of The Implant Itself

Dental implant posts are made of strong metal. So, they are less likely to become loose or fracture. However, it can still occur, especially with low-cost providers who use inferior materials.

Can A Failed Dental Implant Be Replaced? 

Well, there are several stages of implant failure. If caught early, the implants can be saved with deep cleaning, antibiotic coverage, bone grafting, and special care. That is especially true for early cases. Dentists can also save the cosmetically failed implants by replacing the prosthesis or performing gum-lengthening surgery. In this case, you will need to maintain good oral hygiene.

However, there are also some cases where the dental implants can’t be saved. In such cases, your dentist or specialist may suggest the removal of your implant. After removal, he/she will clean the area and let the tissues heal. After the healing process, you can get a new dental implant without any complications. 

But in case you don’t have enough bone in the area, you may need to undergo bone grafting. This procedure helps rebuild the bone before the second implant surgery.

What Can You Do To Help Your Dental Implant Be Successful?

Whether you are considering a new implant or already have one, there are some steps you can take to enhance the success of the implant. So, what are those steps? Check it out below. 

• Brush your teeth two times a day: Dentists generally suggest brushing your teeth twice a day with soft-bristle brushes and non-abrasive toothpaste. It removes plaque and minimizes the chances of infection. Rinse your mouth with mouthwash at least once a day. 
• Avoid smoking and tobacco: Smoking and tobacco can lead to dental implant failure and gum disease. So, you should try to avoid it as much as you can. 
• Protect your dental implants from trauma or damage. If you play sports or engage in strenuous recreational activities, you should wear a mouthguard. It will help to protect your dental implant and natural teeth. The same applies if you grind your teeth. 
• Have regular consultations with your dentist: You should have regular consultations with your dentist to keep your dental implants in good condition. Regular checkups help to detect and address potential issues early. 
• Take steps to preserve bone health: If your routine screening shows bone loss, it is important to take steps to maintain your bone density. Whatever your doctor suggests, medication or supplements, you should follow them to keep your jawbone healthy.  

The Final Takeaway! 

Dental implants look and feel like real teeth, making them both comfortable and functional. Whether you’re eating, talking, or smiling, dental implants allow you to do it with ease and confidence. As for the survival of dental implants, it truly depends not only on the procedure but also on your proper care. You should prioritize oral hygiene and follow your doctor’s advice to ensure the longevity of your implant. 

However, always keep in mind that there is no lifetime guarantee—whether it’s for either a natural tooth or an implant. You should consider them as a compliment to each other, not as competing. Just care for them well, and they will keep your smile strong for years to come. 

FAQs: Addressing Your Common Concerns!

Do you have any more questions about the successful implant and survival rate? In this section, let us try to address some of the concerns through the questions that are mostly asked by people. 

Can a dental implant fail after 2 years?

Dental implant failure is extremely unlikely. It is one of the most predictable and successful surgeries in dentistry. However, the dental implants may fail if they are not placed correctly from the beginning or if you have not gotten your regular cleanings properly. 

What is the biggest reason implants fail?

One of the most common reasons for dental implant failure is infection. It can be caused by poor oral hygiene maintenance. Other causes include misalignment of the implant, poorly taken impressions, surgical trauma, peri-implantitis, and so on. 

Do dental implants expire?

To be frank, dental implants don’t expire, they are meant to be permanent. With proper care and maintenance, the implants can last a lifetime. However, they can fail over time, or the crown may be replaced after 10 to 15 years due to wear. 

What are the dental implant complications? 

Although dental implants have a high success rate, they also have the potential to cause some complications. Some dental implant complications include gum recession, infection, nerve damage, or tissue damage. 

How long do dental implants last?

Dental implants are designed to be permanent. More than 90% were proven to be successful over 10 years. With proper care and maintenance, they can last 20 years or more. Moreover, implants last longer than crowns.