A major factor in the rising popularity of dental implants is the fact that they look and feel natural inside the mouth. However, because they’re so lifelike, you may find yourself wondering whether it’s possible for them to develop cavities like your real teeth. If you want to protect your oral health after getting dental implants, here’s what you need to keep in mind.
The Facts About Cavities and Dental Implants
Cavities occur when the enamel protecting your natural teeth is exposed to the acids produced by harmful oral bacteria. Said acids slowly erode the enamel, eventually causing small holes to form. However, dental implants are made of titanium, which is a highly durable metal. Since they are not composed of enamel, there is no risk of them developing cavities.
That said, even after dental implant placement, your natural teeth will remain susceptible to decay. Thus, you will still need to practice good oral hygiene if you want to keep the rest of your smile safe from cavities.
What Oral Health Issues Can Affect Dental Implants?
While dental implants can’t get cavities, other oral health issues could still potentially put them at risk. In particular, gum disease is a leading cause of dental implant failure. An infection of the gum tissue can significantly damage the tissues responsible for holding your dental implants in place. If gum disease isn’t treated in time, your implant posts may ultimately come loose.
What Can You Do to Protect Your Dental Implants?
If you want to keep your dental implants for as long as possible, you need to take proper care of them. Here are some simple steps for good dental implant maintenance:
- Brush Regularly: You should be in the habit of brushing your teeth at least two times a day. While brushing, be sure to give your dental implants the same attention as the rest of your smile. Remember to pay close attention to the area where your dental implant restoration comes in contact with your gums.
- Floss: In addition to brushing, it’s important to floss your dental implants at least once a day. It may be a good idea to search for floss that is designed with dental implants in mind.
- Visit Your Dentist: Biannual checkups and cleanings give your dentist the opportunity to check for signs of gum disease and other threats to your oral health. On top of that, they can examine your dental implants to see if there are any problems that need to be addressed.
Dental implants may not be at risk for developing cavities, but that doesn’t mean you can afford to neglect your oral hygiene routine. Taking care of your rebuilt smile is essential if you want to continue enjoying the benefits of dental implants for many years to come.
About the Practice
At Villagio Family & Cosmetic Dental, our dentists provide personalized, expert care to all of our patients in Cinco Ranch. We offer dental implants as a solution for replacing any number of teeth, and we can guide you through every step of the process. Are you interested in finding out whether dental implants are right for you? Visit our website or call us at (281) 395-2100 to schedule an appointment.