The term “fake teeth” broadly refers to various dental prosthetics designed to replace missing teeth, including removable dentures, fixed crowns and bridges, and implant-supported restorations. The durability of these replacements is highly variable, depending on the prosthetic type, the materials used, and the patient’s care routine. Understanding the expected lifespan of each category helps in making informed choices about long-term dental health.
Longevity of Removable Prosthetics
Removable prosthetics, such as complete and partial dentures, typically have the shortest lifespan, generally lasting between five and ten years before replacement is needed. The base material is usually acrylic resin, which is prone to wear. Partial dentures may incorporate a metal framework for greater stability and strength, contributing to their longevity.
The main reason for replacement is often the change in the underlying oral structure, not the wear of the artificial teeth. After tooth loss, the jawbone naturally shrinks, causing the denture to become loose and ill-fitting. Dentures require periodic adjustments called relines, which restore comfort and stability. While hard relines can extend the denture’s useful life for a few years, they are temporary until a new set is required.
Longevity of Fixed Non-Implant Restorations
Fixed non-implant restorations, including crowns, bridges, and veneers, are permanently cemented onto existing natural teeth. The average lifespan for a crown or bridge is generally between 10 and 15 years, though some can last 20 years or more with excellent care. Material choice significantly influences longevity.
Metal alloys, such as gold, offer the greatest durability and resistance to wear, making them a long-lasting option, especially for back teeth. Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) restorations balance strength and aesthetics, while all-ceramic materials like zirconia offer the most natural appearance. Pure porcelain is more susceptible to chipping or fracture, especially in individuals who grind their teeth. The health of the natural tooth structure underneath is a major factor in survival, as decay or fracture of the supporting tooth can cause failure.
Lifespan of Implant-Supported Teeth
Dental implants are the most durable option, replacing the tooth root with a titanium or zirconia post anchored into the jawbone. The implant post itself has a high success rate and is often expected to last a lifetime due to osseointegration (integration with the bone). The longevity of the implant-supported tooth is usually limited by the crown or restoration attached to the post.
The prosthetic crown or bridge placed on the implant is subject to the same chewing forces and wear as a crown on a natural tooth. These restorations typically need replacement after 10 to 25 years due to chipping, wear, or material fatigue. Replacement factors include changes in the gum line, porcelain damage, or issues with the connecting abutment. Long-term success relies on the health of the surrounding gum and bone tissue, which poor hygiene can compromise, leading to peri-implantitis.
Maximizing Durability and Recognizing Wear
The longevity of any prosthetic is heavily influenced by patient habits and consistent oral care. Habits such as clenching and grinding (bruxism) place excessive mechanical strain on restorations, accelerating wear and increasing fracture risk. Chewing on hard items like ice or hard candies can also cause premature chipping or breakage. Minimizing these habits protects the dental investment.
Proper maintenance routines are essential, including daily cleaning and regular professional checkups. Fixed restorations require meticulous brushing and flossing around the margins to prevent decay or inflammation. Removable dentures must be cleaned daily with specialized products and often soaked, preventing plaque and stains that compromise the material.
Recognizing signs of wear ensures timely intervention. For dentures, signs include noticeable looseness, difficulty chewing, or persistent sores on the gums. Fixed restorations may show failure through:
- Exposed margins (a dark line near the gum line).
- Feeling a sharp edge or sensitivity.
- Chipping of the porcelain.
- Persistent pain or mobility of the restoration.
These indications require immediate professional assessment.