Ewha Womans University Implants: What You Need to Know to Make Them Last

Hello.

I am Jongwoo Lim, the chief director of Gwanghwamun The Square Dental Clinic.

“Doctor, how long can an implant last?”

For many people, the biggest concern before an implant procedure is its lifespan. Some people say they have used them well for 30 to 40 years or more, while others have problems within just a few years.

That is why questions like, “Which brand is the best?” and “Is there a product guaranteed for life?” come up so often.

Today, let’s look at the factors that must be considered for long-term implant use.

Three key factors that determine implant lifespan

1. The amount and quality of bone

Since an implant is an artificial tooth placed into bone, the height, width, and density of the bone are what matter most.

If there is enough bone and it is neither too soft nor too hard, the surgery becomes less difficult and the prognosis improves.

2. The condition of the gums

The gums also have a major effect on an implant’s lifespan. In particular, there should be enough firm gum tissue, called keratinized gingiva, so that inflammation does not develop easily. 3. Chewing force and habits

Teeth grinding, clenching, and the habit of frequently eating tough or hard foods shorten the lifespan of implants.

Our natural teeth wear down quickly because of such habits, and implants are no different. Therefore, if you have these habits, wearing an orthodontic mouthpiece (night guard) or changing your lifestyle habits is necessary.

Choices that matter more than the brand

Many people think that “which brand is used” is important,

but

the implant’s diameter, length, design, and the surgical method are much more important.

● Diameter (thickness)

If it is too thin, it can break easily, and if it is too thick, the surrounding bone may be damaged. Choosing a diameter that matches the width of the patient’s bone is key.

● Length

In the past, longer was thought to be more stable, but recent studies have shown that there is often no major difference once the length exceeds 10 mm. Rather, a customized choice that considers the distance from the nerve or maxillary sinus is needed.

● Design

There are various types, such as bone-level and tissue-level designs,

and the appropriate design should be determined according to the patient’s chewing force and gum condition.

Small differences make a big difference

Even with the same material, an implant’s result can change completely depending on at what angle, at what depth, and by what method it is placed.

If the bone is too weak, we may perform bone packing to compact it firmly, or in some cases, bone grafting may also be done.

On the other hand, if the bone is too hard, blood circulation may not be smooth and problems can occur. In such cases, small holes may be made to secure blood flow.

Also, if there is not enough gum tissue, rather than simply performing surgery without incisions, gum grafting or gum contouring should also be considered for more stable long-term results.

For implants to last a long time, the basic conditions of bone, gums, and chewing force must be carefully examined, and the proper shape and surgical method for each case must be chosen.

There is no such thing as a “perfect implant” that applies to everyone in the same way. Accurately diagnosing each patient’s condition and making a plan that fits that condition is the surest way to use implants for a long time.

I hope today’s post was a small help to those with the same concerns. I always wish you healthy teeth and a healthy life.

Gwanghwamun The Square Dental Clinic

Sincerely, Jongwoo Lim, Chief Director