How Many People Have Dental Implants? Uncovering the Latest Statistics & Trends

That moment when your dentist mentions “dental implants” can bring up a lot of questions. Are dental implants really that common? How many people have them? Is getting one just for older adults, or are more people turning to this tooth replacement solution?

If you’re reading this, you might be curious, worried, or just checking out your options for a missing tooth. You’re not alone—millions of people all over the world have chosen dental implants, and the numbers keep getting bigger. So, let’s break down the latest numbers and facts about dental implants in plain language. Whether you’re unsure about implants or just trying to understand all the dental choices, this guide is for you.

In This Article: Quick Navigation

• Are Dental Implants Really That Common?
• Key Statistics: How Many People Have Dental Implants?
• Who’s Getting Dental Implants? Demographic Insights
• What’s Driving the Boom in Dental Implants?
• The Dental Implant Market: Growth and Key Players
• Barriers and Considerations: Is It All Sunshine?
• What Does the Future Hold for Dental Implants?
• Your Healthy Takeaway: Is A Dental Implant Right for You?

Are Dental Implants Really That Common?

Let’s start by answering the question most people have: Is getting a dental implant normal? Yes, it is. Years ago, dental implants seemed like science fiction—now, they’re almost as common as getting a crown or a bridge.

Here’s a surprising fact:

More than 100 million people in the world now have at least one dental implant, and about 5 to 6 million adults in the United States do too. Each year, millions more people get implants as dental care, tools, and awareness keep getting better.

If you’re thinking about getting a dental implant (or you already have one), you’re part of a huge group—so don’t worry!

Key Statistics: How Many People Have Dental Implants?

Global Prevalence—What Does the World Picture Look Like?

• Over 100–150 million people around the world have at least one dental implant.
• Dentists place 15–20 million new dental implants worldwide every year.
• More people are getting implants all the time, especially in places like North America, Europe, and parts of Asia—places where having a nice smile is important.

Where are implants most common?

• Europe is big on implants, especially in countries like Germany, Spain, and Italy.
• Asia-Pacific is catching up fast, with places like South Korea and Japan seeing many people get implants.
• North America—especially the U.S.—has a growing dental implant business, with millions of new procedures each year.

United States Prevalence—What About Closer to Home?

• About 5–6 million Americans have at least one dental implant.
• Roughly 2–3 million new dental implants are placed in the U.S. each year.
• For adults aged 18–64, about 10–15% have had an implant. For people 65 and older, this goes up, with up to 20–30% having dental implants.
• The dental implant business in the U.S. is worth $2–3 billion as of 2023 and is growing quickly.

A Quick Comparison: Implants vs. Dentures vs. Bridges

Is everyone getting implants now instead of dentures or bridges?

• Implants are the fastest-growing choice for replacing missing teeth lately.
• Why? Unlike dentures (which can move around or feel too big) and bridges (which need to grind healthy teeth), implants act like “fake roots.” They’re like the base for a new, solid tooth—permanent, steady, and they look natural.

Who’s Getting Dental Implants? Demographic Insights

Dental implants aren’t just for older people! Let’s see who’s getting dental implants, and why.

Age Distribution: Is There a “Right Age” for Implants?

• Most common age group: Adults between 45 and 64 years old.
• Seniors over 65: More likely to get implants, especially as people live longer these days.
• Younger adults (20s–30s): Getting implants too, especially after accidents, sports injuries, or missing teeth from birth.

Trends:

More people under 40 are choosing dental implants now—it’s not just for older folks anymore. For example, a 35-year-old who loses a tooth during sports can get a single implant that looks and feels real.

Gender Breakdown: Who Gets More Dental Implants—Men or Women?

• In the past, women were a bit more likely to get implants—maybe because of higher tooth loss, being more health-aware, or wanting a great smile.
• These days? It’s almost even, as both men and women care about having healthy, good-looking teeth.

Socioeconomic Factors: Does Income or Insurance Matter?

Yes, money matters—dental implants aren’t cheap. Income, insurance, and getting to a good dentist all affect who can choose implants.

• People with higher incomes or good dental insurance are more able to get implants.
• There are some efforts happening now to help more people afford implants.

Urban, Rural, and Regional Differences

• People in cities get implants more often, probably because it’s easier to find a specialist or a well-equipped clinic.
• In the U.S., big cities and coastal states are ahead in implant use, while rural places may not have as many options.
• Around the world, developed countries have the most implants, but other areas are catching up.

What’s Driving the Boom in Dental Implants?

Why are dental implants getting more popular? Let’s look at the reasons.

1. More People Know About Implants

• People—and dentists—talk more about implants and how they help.
• Social media, health ads, and dentist advice are spreading the news.

2. Better Dental Technology

Dentistry has changed a lot.

• 3D scans: Dentists can plan your implant with super accuracy, helping avoid problems.
• Guided surgery: Kind of like giving a GPS to the dentist—making things safer and quicker.
• New materials: Titanium and zirconia are light, strong, safe for your body, and look just like real teeth.
• Digital and 3D dental labs are changing how crowns and bridges are made, making them fit better and look more real.

3. We’re Living Longer and Losing More Teeth

• People are living longer, but teeth don’t always last.
• Age, health problems (like diabetes or gum disease), and just daily use mean more adults have missing teeth—and want something that lasts.

4. They Really Work and Last

• Success rates: Dental implants work over 95% of the time—they can last 20 years or more with good care.
• They stay put, help keep your jawbone strong, and don’t bother your other teeth.
• Implants let you eat, laugh, and smile—without worrying about loose dentures or trouble eating.

5. Dentists and Patients Are On Board

• Dentists used to only give implants to special cases—now, more people can get them than ever before.
• Many dental professionals know how to do implants these days, from general dentists to special tooth doctors.

The Dental Implant Market: Growth and Key Players

Dental implants aren’t just changing smiles—they’re a huge business.

Market Size & Growth

• Global dental implant and abutments market: $6–8 billion as of 2023.
• US part: Around $2–3 billion, getting bigger by about 9–14% each year.
• Expected to keep rising for many years, with older populations and new markets in Asia and South America.

What’s Making the Market Grow?

• More people need to fix missing teeth—in a way that looks good and will last.
• New ideas: Companies are making better designs, faster healing, and new materials.

The Big Names in Dental Implants

• Companies like Nobel Biocare, Straumann, Dentsply Sirona, Zimmer Biomet, and BioHorizons are leaders in dental implants.
• They work with all kinds of dental clinics and labs to bring the best implants to everyone.

Barriers and Considerations: Is It All Sunshine?

Dental implants sound great—but there are things to think about.

1. The Cost—A Big Issue

• Getting a dental implant can cost between $2,000 and $5,000 (sometimes more) per tooth in the U.S.—depending on where you live, what’s needed, and how tricky it is.
• Why so much? Implants take surgery, a plan made just for you, and custom teeth that use top-quality materials.

2. Insurance Coverage: Not Always Great

• Dental insurance is starting to help, but most plans only pay for some of the cost.
• You might have to pay a lot yourself, but more clinics now have payment plans or outside financing.

3. Surgical Risks & Problems

• Implants are safe and usually work well—but, like any surgery, there are risks. You could get an infection, the implant could fail, or you could have issues like sore gums around the implant, especially if you don’t take care of your mouth.
• Good cleaning is super important: Brush and floss your implants just like real teeth.

4. Not Everyone Can Get Them

• Some health problems (uncontrolled diabetes, gum disease, heavy smoking, not enough bone) may mean implants won’t work for you—at least right now.
• The good news? New ways to add bone and gentle surgery help more people qualify than ever before.

Worried about your situation? A dentist can check and let you know your options—just ask and get checked out.

What Does the Future Hold for Dental Implants?

If dental implants are already really popular, what’s next?

1. Smarter, Stronger, and Cheaper Implants

• Smart Implants: Some are trying out implants with sensors to check how your bone and gums are doing after surgery.
• Growing new tissue: In the future, the dentist might be able to help your jawbone and gums regrow, or 3D print teeth just for you.
• Lower prices: As things get better and more common, the price may go down—helping more people afford them.

2. Opening Doors for More People

• Governments, insurance, and community groups are trying to help people in both cities and small towns get replacements for missing teeth.
• As digital and ceramic dental labs get faster and cheaper, you’ll see quicker service and better fits.

3. Higher Expectations, Happier Patients

• Patients want natural looks, comfort, and no hassles.
• More dentists now focus on implant and tooth-replacement work, giving you more personal care.

Your Healthy Takeaway: Is A Dental Implant Right for You?

Let’s sum up the big ideas about dental implants:

Key Quick Facts

• Dental implants are more popular than ever: Over 100 million people world-wide, and the number is growing.
• Not just for older people—adults of all ages, even 20s and 30s, are picking implants for chewing or for looks.
• Implants are great—they’re solid, look real, help your jawbone, and can make you feel better about your smile.
• Cost and access can be problems—but tech and education are making implants more reachable for more people.

Good Candidates

• Most healthy adults who pay attention to cleaning their teeth and have enough bone can get implants.
• If you have health problems, gum disease, or certain medicines, it might be harder, but new dental science means there could be options for you.
• If you don’t like loose dentures, have missing teeth, or want something that lasts—talk with your dentist about implants.

Remember:

A dental implant isn’t just a “fake tooth”—it’s your chance to get back your smile, your speech, and your confidence. It helps you bite, keeps your jaw healthy, and looks (and feels) like a real tooth.

Want to Learn More or See If You’re a Candidate?

Ready for your next step? Here’s what to try:

• Get a full dental checkup—your dentist can see what’s possible for you.
• Check out new dental materials and options with your dentist—like ceramic or zirconia from a trusted lab.
• Read our guides on dental implants to learn more about the steps, risks, aftercare, and benefits.
• Still got questions? Ask your dentist about your health, your budget, and what you want to achieve. The right dental professional will help you every step of the way.

And always remember—you’re not alone, and you get to choose your dental health. Dental implants are changing lives everywhere, one smile at a time.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Implants

How long do dental implants last?

With good care, implants can last 20 years or even longer. They’re meant to last a long time—though the crown (the top part) might need to be changed after many years, the “root” usually lasts decades.

Do implants hurt?

Your dentist will use medicine to make sure you don’t hurt during the process. Some swelling or pain is normal for a few days after, but most people get back to normal quickly.

What if I don’t have enough bone for an implant?

There are ways to build up your jawbone so you can get an implant. New dental surgery makes it possible for most people to still get one.

Are implants as strong as real teeth?

Yes—sometimes stronger! Dental implants let you eat almost anything you could before.

Is there an age limit for dental implants?

Not really. As long as your health is good, you can get implants as an adult at almost any age—what matters most is having enough bone and healthy gums.

In Summary

You asked, “How many people have dental implants?” Now you know dental implants are super common—they’re helping people everywhere. From bringing back lost confidence to making eating, talking, and living better, implants are one of the best fixes modern dentistry can offer.

Remember this:

You’ve got choices. You’ve got help. And with the right information and a good team, a healthier, happier smile could be just ahead!