You may have heard that dental implants are similar to natural teeth in many ways. That is true! For example, implants are strong, natural-looking, and durable. But are they vulnerable to the same problems as natural teeth? For example, can they get cavities? This blog post explains why the answer to that question is no. It also provides important tips for keeping your dental implants in great shape.
Can Dental Implants Get Cavities?
Natural teeth develop cavities when bacteria in the mouth produce acids that erode the tooth enamel, eventually forming the small holes that are often referred to as cavities. Dental implants, along with the crowns, bridges, or dentures attached to them, are typically made from materials like porcelain or ceramic. These materials do not react to acids and plaque like natural teeth, so you do not need to worry about cavities forming in your implants or their restorations.
However, just because dental implants are invulnerable to cavities does not mean you can neglect proper oral care.
Why Oral Hygiene Still Matters
Even though cavities are not a possibility for dental implants, the tissue and bone surrounding your implants are still susceptible to infection and other problems. Neglecting your daily oral care routine can lead to the accumulation of plaque and harmful bacteria. This can result in conditions such as peri-implantitis, an infection that damages the soft tissue and bone around your implants and may ultimately cause implant failure.
Other risks associated with poor oral hygiene include:
- Gum inflammation and bleeding
- Chronic bad breath
- Discoloration of your prosthetic teeth
- A persistent unpleasant taste in your mouth
- General discomfort or swelling around the implant sites
Practical Steps for Caring for Dental Implants
Your dentist is your best resource for personalized oral hygiene advice, but you can follow these general guidelines to protect both your implants and your natural teeth:
- Brush all your teeth, including implants and natural teeth, twice daily using a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste.
- Floss at least once daily using traditional floss, a floss threader, or a water flosser to reach between teeth and beneath implant bridges or dentures.
- Rinse your mouth with an antibacterial mouthwash to reduce plaque and bacteria.
- Avoid using your teeth as tools, and refrain from chewing on hard objects such as ice or pens to prevent damage to your restorations.
- Eat a balanced diet low in sugary and acidic foods to promote overall oral health.
- Contact your dentist promptly if you notice signs of redness, swelling, pain, or any changes around your implants.
- Visit your general dentist at least twice a year for a cleaning and checkup.
Cavities are not a concern for dental implants! However, you still need to diligently care for your prosthetic teeth so they can stand the test of time.
Meet the Practice
At Radiance Dentistry Dental Implant Center in Irving, our three in-house experts help patients rebuild strong and confident smiles with dental implants. We combine state-of-the-art technology with our skill and experience to provide truly top-quality care. If you have questions about dental implants or how to make a long-term success out of this treatment, contact our office at 972-866-7976.