Menu
down white black pearl plain arrow down black pearl white plain arrow

Contact

Get in touch

FAQ

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How long do tooth replacements last?

As a general guide (individual results vary):

  • Implant crowns and bridges: often 10–20 years or longer.
  • Tooth-supported crowns: commonly 10–15 years.
  • Bridges: similar to crowns, depending on supporting teeth.
  • Dentures: may last several years but often require adjustment, relining, or replacement over time.

These are averages, not guarantees.

What affects longevity most?

The main factors influencing lifespan are:

  • Bite forces and grinding or clenching.
  • Oral hygiene.
  • Gum and bone health.
  • Quality of planning and execution.
  • Regular professional review.
  • Patient habits (diet, smoking, maintenance attendance).

Bite forces and hygiene are often more important than the material used.

Is it normal to need maintenance or adjustments over time?

It is normal and expected that over time, you may need:

  • Bite adjustments.
  • Repairs or polishing.
  • Replacement of small components.
  • Relining or modification of dentures.

Planned maintenance helps prevent larger problems.

How long do tooth replacements last, and what affects their longevity?

All tooth replacements are designed to restore function and appearance, but no dental restoration lasts forever. Longevity depends on the type of restoration, how it is used, and how well it is maintained over time. Understanding this helps patients make informed, realistic decisions.

What should I do to care for and maintain my dental implants or restorations?

  • Brush twice daily with a soft toothbrush.
  • Clean carefully around the implant and gum line.
  • Use interdental brushes or floss as recommended.
  • Remove and clean implant-retained dentures daily.
  • Avoid using teeth to bite hard objects.
  • Wear a night guard if advised.
  • Attend regular dental and hygiene reviews.
  • Report any soreness, bleeding, or looseness early.

What are the key do’s and don’ts after All-on-4 dental implant surgery?

                                                                All-on-4 RECOVERY TIPS
DO’s DON’Ts
Use hot & cold packs for the first 48 hours Avoid hot food for 1 week
Have liquid foods for 1 week Avoid heavy work for 3–4 days
Eat soft foods from the 2nd week Do not drink fluids with a straw
Take prescribed medicines Avoid crunchy foods for 2 weeks
Rinse your mouth with salt water Avoid smoking and alcohol consumption

 

Treatments

Implant-supported teeth

Implants themselves can last many years, but:

  • Crowns, bridges, and attachment components can wear.
  • Bite adjustments may be needed.
  • Hygiene around implants is critical.
  • Components such as locator inserts will require replacement.

Implants do not decay, but the surrounding tissues can become inflamed without good care.

Harcourt Dental Clinic
logo right white plain symbol

Treatments

Bridges and crowns on natural teeth

Longevity depends on:

  • Health of the supporting teeth.
  • Quality of the margins.
  • Bite stability.
  • Prevention of recurrent decay.

Failure often relates to gum disease, decay at the margins, or excessive force rather than the crown itself.

Harcourt Dental Clinic
logo right white plain symbol

Treatments

Dentures and removable options

Dentures require ongoing care because:

  • Gums and bone change shape over time.
  • Fit and stability may be reduced.
  • Teeth and acrylic can wear.

Lower dentures, in particular, often benefit from implant support to improve stability and longevity. (The World Health Organisation recommends 2 implants retaining an overdenture as a minimum treatment for the lower edentulous patient.)

Harcourt Dental Clinic
logo right white plain symbol

Protecting your investment

Longevity is improved by:

  • Regular dental and hygiene visits.
  • Early intervention when issues arise.
  • Wearing night guards if advised.
  • Good daily cleaning at home.

Small interventions early often prevent major treatment later.

Planning and responsibility of care

Long-term success starts with good planning. Your dentist will discuss expected lifespan and maintenance needs before treatment begins.

Where tooth replacement forms part of a complex restorative plan, involves implants, or requires bite management, Dr Kevin Gilmore oversees the planning and long-term strategy to ensure restorations are chosen, designed, and maintained with durability in mind.

Patient reminder

Implants do not decay, but the gums around them can become inflamed. Good daily care and regular professional review are essential for long-term success.

Patient takeaway

Tooth replacements are an investment in your health and comfort. With realistic expectations, good maintenance, and regular review, they can serve you well for many years.

TREATMENT TESTIMONIALS

Our Smile Transformations

We’re proud to be a trusted part of our patients’ oral health journeys. Explore their testimonials to see how we’re creating positive dental experiences – one smile at a time.

Explore
star yellow plain icon

I required some extensive dental work, which I had been catastrophising in my head for some time now. Having finally plucked up the courage, I consider myself extremely fortunate to have been cared for so professionally & competently by Lorna…

Colin K

google blue red yellow green plain icon
star yellow plain icon

I had a great experience with Lorna. She was very competent, gentle and took the time to explain everything clearly. I’d highly recommend Lorna to anyone who feels anxious about visiting the dentist!

Amy T

google blue red yellow green plain icon
star yellow plain icon

I’ve been a patient at Harcourt Dental Clinic for about 5 years now, and I couldn’t be happier with the service I’ve received. From the friendly and welcoming staff to the professional and skilled dentists, every visit has been a…

Adrian V

google blue red yellow green plain icon
star yellow plain icon

Martina is an excellent hygienist, professional, kind, and thorough. She made me feel completely at ease and did a fantastic job with my cleaning. I highly recommend her!

Ana R

google blue red yellow green plain icon
star yellow plain icon

I would highly recommend this dental practice. They are very professional in every sense. Special shout-out for Cianna & Kevin, two highly skilled dentists.

Brian R

google blue red yellow green plain icon
star yellow plain icon

I strongly recommend this dental practice. The reception staff are always friendly and polite. Dr Lorna Mahon and her assistant have been excellent in treating a quite difficult dental issue with great care and professionalism.

Matthew V

google blue red yellow green plain icon
logo left customs green plain symbol
abstract line left gray plain shape

Contact us today!

If you have a broken tooth or a cracked tooth, contact us for an assessment and a clear plan.

logo up customs green plain symbol

Social Media

Join the Conversation

Follow us on social media for the latest updates, behind-the-scenes moments, and more.

Explore
Google Rating
4.8
Google Rating
Google-review