There isn’t a better option out there than dental implants when it comes to replacing missing teeth. This is because they can mimic your lost pearly whites in appearance, feel, and functionality like no other tooth replacement. However, even if they aren’t your natural teeth, you still need to maintain a proper oral hygiene routine. Read on for more information on whether or not you can still get cavities with dental implants.
Can You Get Cavities if You Have Dental Implants?
If you have a single or only a few dental implants, you’ll still have natural teeth surrounding it that can still get cavities. However, the actual implant itself, as well as any other dental work you might have done, isn’t made of enamel like the rest of your teeth.
A dental implant is typically made of titanium. The crown, or replacement tooth, is usually made of zirconia, ceramic, or dental porcelain. These materials are very strong and can blend in with the size, shape, and shade of your natural teeth. Notably, these materials aren’t affected by the acids produced by cavity-causing plaque and bacteria. So, no: your dental implant cannot get cavities.
That being said, it’s still important that you maintain an oral hygiene routine and regularly visit your dentist for cleanings. You have other teeth and parts of your mouth that need to be thoroughly cleaned to avoid infection.
Prevent Dental Implant Failure by Avoiding Gum Disease
Even if you have implants, you still need to practice oral hygiene just as you would with your natural teeth. Brushing your implant twice a day and flossing at least once daily can not only prevent cavities, but gum disease as well. Avoiding gum disease is essential for keeping your dental implants strong, healthy, and in place for years to come.
Your dental implants are directly inserted into your jawbone through your gums, so in order to get them you need to have healthy gums. In fact, dentists will normally ask implant patients to see them more often than just twice a year to ensure there are no signs of gum disease.
Gum disease is one of the leading causes of both tooth loss and implant failure. Your gums recede from the tooth roots and leave your teeth with insufficient support. The bacteria that causes gum disease will also attack and weaken your jawbone. This causes your teeth to become loose and fall out. If you’re not taking good care of your oral hygiene and health, the same can happen to your implants.
Fortunately, your dentist will be able to catch any early signs of gum disease and treat them to prevent implant failure.
About the Practice
At Vason Family Dentistry, we use the latest methods and technology to strengthen and protect the smiles of Atlanta. Drs. Carlisle Vason and Kristen Grisham provide a variety of dental services at your comfort and convenience. Our practice offers a 4-step dental implant process for patients missing one, multiple, or all of their teeth, and our talented team will walk you through every step of the way. If you’re looking to replace your missing teeth, contact Vason Family Dentistry at our website or by phone at (404) 367-9799.