The 10-year figures
The meta-analysis by Howe and colleagues, published in 2019 in the Journal of Dentistry, pooled 18 studies that followed implants for at least 10 years. On average, 96.4% of implants were still in place at 10 years.
The authors also recalculated this figure by cautiously accounting for patients lost to follow-up: the estimate then becomes 93.2%. In patients aged 65 and over, estimated survival was slightly lower, around 91.5%. These figures remain high, but are a reminder that an implant is not an absolute guarantee.
The implant and the crown: two different lifespans
The implant is the artificial root placed in the bone. The crown, or bridge, is the visible part that wears like any restoration. A 2014 review compared older and newer studies: 5-year survival of single crowns rose to 97.2% in recent publications, and abutment screw loosening fell sharply thanks to improved components.
It is therefore normal for a crown to be repaired or remade during the life of the implant, without the implant itself being at fault.
What makes an implant last
- Not smoking : a 2021 meta-analysis estimates the risk of failure is about 2.4 times higher in smokers.
- Healthy gums : periodontitis must be treated before placement, and a history of it calls for closer follow-up.
- Appropriate cleaning : brush, interdental brushes or floss, depending on the shape of the restoration.
- Regular check-ups : they make it possible to detect inflammation early, when it is easier to treat.
- Good planning : implant position, bone quality and crown shape also affect cleaning and how forces are distributed.
Key points
A well-planned and well-maintained implant has a very good chance of staying in place for many years. Average figures do not, however, predict your own case: your health, your gums and your follow-up count as much as the technique.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a dental implant last?
In a meta-analysis of 18 studies, about 96% of implants were still in place after 10 years. The crown may need maintenance or replacement over time. Hygiene, not smoking and regular check-ups all matter for how long it lasts.
How often should my implants be checked?
It depends on your risk: often once or twice a year with your dentist or periodontist, sometimes more often if you have a history of periodontitis. European guidelines stress these regular check-ups to detect inflammation early.
Sources
- Howe, Keys, Richards — Journal of Dentistry, 2019 — meta-analysis of 18 studies on 10-year implant survival.
- Pjetursson et al. — Int J Oral Maxillofac Implants, 2014 — trends in survival and complication rates of crowns and bridges on implants.
- Jung et al. — Clinical Oral Implants Research, 2008 — 5-year survival and complications of implant-supported single crowns.
- Mustapha, Salame, Chrcanovic — Medicina, 2021 — meta-analysis on smoking and implant failure.
- Herrera et al. — EFP S3 guideline, J Clin Periodontol, 2023 — European guideline on preventing and treating peri-implant diseases.
Replacing one tooth with an implant · Preventing peri-implantitis
This general information helps you prepare for your consultation. Treatment, its risks and aftercare instructions are adapted to your situation by the surgeon.