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Do Dental Implants Last Forever?

Brunette woman in a red tank top smiles against a blue wall after Six Month Smiles

Whether a patient wants one dental implant or a mouthful, a common question we hear at CarolinasDentist is, “How long do dental implants last?” Or “do dental implants last forever?” Longevity depends on several factors. Read on to learn more!

What’s a Dental Implant?

A dental implant consists of a biocompatible metal post surgically placed in your jaw (which is like a replacement tooth root), with a custom restoration placed on top. This restoration could be either a crown, bridge, or dentures.

But before you even receive a dental implant, we assess the health of your jawbone and gums, discuss your lifestyle habits, and evaluate your oral health history to determine whether you are a good candidate. If your jawbone lacks sufficient strength to support a dental implant, we may recommend a bone graft. The entire process is designed to reduce the likelihood of dental implant failure so your artificial teeth stay firmly anchored in place.

Dental implants look and function like natural teeth, and don’t require messy adhesives to stay in place. They also prevent deterioration of your jawbone and facial sagging that can occur with missing teeth.

How Long Do Dental Implants Last?

On average, a dental implant lasts 10 to 15 years. However, they can last more or less time than that, depending on each patient. Though rare, it’s possible for implants to fail. But for many patients, their dental implants last for their entire lifetime. How long they last hinges upon several factors, such as a patient’s oral hygiene and diet. This is because a healthy jawbone and healthy gums are necessary to keep the artificial tooth anchored in place. In addition, if a person smokes, they’re more likely to experience complications and dental implant failure.

How to Increase the Longevity of Your Dental Implants

Since your replacement teeth could potentially last you a lifetime, you should understand how you can increase their longevity. Care for your dental implants like your natural teeth:

  • Do not use tobacco products
  • Brush at least twice a day for two minutes each time
  • Floss daily
  • Visit the dentist for cleanings & checkups every six months
  • Eat a balanced diet
  • Drink plenty of water
  • Don’t chew on ice
  • Limit sugary foods, especially candy that is sticky, sour, or chewy
  • Wear a nightguard if you grind your teeth & an athletic mouthguard if you play sports

Schedule a Consultation Today!

Patient education is vital when deciding to get dental implants. Schedule a consultation to see if dental implants are right for you by contacting CarolinasDentist today! We have several locations across North Carolina.

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Andrew Callender

Andrew Callender

Regional Director of Operations

Andrew Callender was born and raised in Denver, Colorado, and serves as one of our Regional Directors of Operations at CarolinasDentist, focusing on our Western NC and Charlotte regions. He joined the leadership team in 2025 and earned his degree from Western Colorado University. Andrew brings over 12 years of experience in dentistry, including more than 10 years of progressive leadership in healthcare operations and three years serving as a Regional Director of Operations. He relocated to North Carolina in 2023 and has quickly made an impact across the region.

Andrew is passionate about delivering outstanding patient care through operational excellence. He is committed to fostering an environment that aligns with CarolinasDentist’s values and culture while leveraging diverse perspectives and experiences to support team success and growth. His leadership style is rooted in collaboration, consistency, and continuous improvement.

Outside of work, Andrew enjoys spending time with his wife and their four children. He’s an avid golfer and also enjoys walking his lab, Harper—making the most of his time outdoors with family and fresh air.

Nate Bunyak

Nate Bunyak

Regional Director of Operations

Nate Bunyak brings a little bit of Pittsburgh grit and a whole lot of energy to everything he does. He is one of the Regional Director of Operations at CarolinasDentist focusing on our Triangle region, joining the team in 2026. Originally from Pittsburgh, PA, Nate graduated from Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP) with a degree in Marketing and Management—and has been putting both to work ever since. Three years ago, he traded in steel city winters for North Carolina sunshine—and hasn’t looked back.

When he’s not working, Nate is all about family life with his wife, Melissa, and their three kids—Bryce, Molly, and Connor. Whether cheering on their activities, exploring the outdoors, or simply embracing the joyful chaos of a busy household, he makes the most of every moment with his family.

An avid hiker and nature enthusiast, Nate loves adventures that combine fresh air, beautiful views, and lasting memories. That same adventurous, positive spirit carries into his work—he’s driven, all-in, and always ready to take on what’s next.

Jenna Holland

Jenna Holland

Regional Hygiene Director

Jenna Holland is a Fayetteville native and serves as Regional Hygiene Director, joining the leadership team in 2026. She began her career with CarolinasDentist in June 2016 as a dental hygienist in the Fayetteville office after graduating from Fayetteville Technical Community College. Over the years, she has grown within the organization, building strong relationships with both patients and team members while staying rooted in her passion for patient care.

Jenna is deeply committed to promoting overall well-being through oral health and believes in the powerful connection between a healthy smile and a healthy body. In her leadership role, she especially loves mentoring and coaching hygienists, helping them grow in confidence, strengthen their clinical skills, and develop into exceptional providers. She takes pride in supporting her team and fostering an environment of continuous learning and encouragement.

Her best advice for patients is simple: stay consistent with routine check-ups and cleanings to maintain optimal health. Outside of the office, Jenna enjoys traveling—especially to warm, tropical destinations—and is engaged to her high school sweetheart, adding a personal touch to her passion for caring for others.

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