Dental implants are the best tooth replacement option out there. Thanks to their unique ability to replace the roots of the missing teeth, they offer a wide range of additional benefits, including stability, comfort, and longevity. In fact, they are the closest thing to real teeth. This begs the question: can dental implants get cavities like real teeth? Continue reading to find out.
Do Dental Implants Get Cavities?
Dental implants look and feel just like natural teeth. However, one difference is that they cannot decay like real teeth do. This is because dental implants are usually made from titanium, which is incredibly resistant. The dental crown or other restoration attached to implants is usually made from porcelain or ceramic. These materials look just like real teeth, even in the way they reflect light. One of the great things about them is that they don’t decay like tooth enamel does. That being said, the teeth around them can still get cavities, and the gums are still susceptible to gum disease – one of the greatest threats to the success of dental implants! It’s important that you take all of the proper steps to care for your smile to avoid these negative consequences.
How to Care for Dental Implants
Dental implants may not get cavities, but they still need to be cared for to maintain excellent oral health. Here are some steps you should be taking to keep your dental implants in excellent shape.
- See Your Dentist: By seeing your dentist every six months for regular cleanings and checkups, issues can be caught and addressed early on. Professional cleanings help to keep all areas of your smile clean, preventing oral health issues from developing.
- Brush Your Teeth: Just like with natural teeth, you should be brushing your dental implants twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoridated toothpaste.
- Floss: In addition to brushing, you should floss your teeth once a day. This helps to remove food debris and plaque from between the teeth and along the gumline. Some people also benefit from using a water flosser for extra ease and freshness.
- Rinse: Antimicrobial mouth rinses help to prevent the buildup of bacteria in your mouth, reducing your risk of developing an infection.
- Don’t Smoke: Smoking slows the body’s natural healing process, increasing your risk of developing an infection.
- Mindful Eating: You don’t have any eating restrictions with dental implants, but you can still benefit from being mindful about the items you are choosing. Be careful when eating foods that are particularly hard or sticky. Avoid overindulging in sugary and starchy foods.
Dental implants can’t get cavities, but maintaining your smile is just as important as it’s ever been. By using the tips listed above, you can keep your dental implants in beautiful shape!
About the Author
Dr. Adriana Zaharie has been working in the field for more than two decades. She earned her Doctor of Dental Medicine from the University of Antioquia and Doctorate in Dental Medicine from the Advanced Standing Program at the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine. She completes the entire dental implant process at her practice, so patients don’t need to work with another dentist at a separate location. To learn more about dental implants or to schedule an appointment at her office in Katy, visit her website or call (281) 395-2100.