Do Dental Implants Get Cavities?

Dental implants are the best tooth replacement option out there. Because they replace the roots of the missing teeth, they allow for various benefits that you can’t experience with dentures or dental bridges. This includes reliable stability, comfort, and longevity. They are the closest thing to real teeth. This may have you wondering – do dental implants get cavities? Here’s what you should know.

Do Dental Implants Get Cavities?

Dental implants look and feel like natural teeth do. However, one major difference is the fact that dental implants do not decay like real teeth do. This is because of the materials that dental implants are comprised of. Dental implants are usually made from titanium which is highly resilient. The dental crown placed on the end of the dental implant 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. Gum disease is one of the biggest threats to the success of dental implants. You must take all of the necessary steps to care for your smile and avoid these consequences.

How to Care for Dental Implants

Dental implants may not be at risk for cavities, but they still need to be cared for to maintain excellent oral health. Here are some of the steps that you should take to keep your new teeth in good 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 every day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoridated toothpaste.
• Floss: In addition to brushing, you should floss your teeth every 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 down the body’s natural healing process, increasing your risk of developing an infection.
• Mindful Eating: You don’t have any eating restrictions when you have dental implants, but you can still benefit from being mindful about the items that you choose. Be careful when eating food that is hard or sticky. You should also 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 above, you can keep your grin complete and healthy!

About the Author

Dr. Mayda Ferguson earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree from the Louisiana State University School of Dentistry in New Orleans. Since then, she has continued her education, earning a Fellowship in the Academy of General Dentistry. Currently, she is a proud member of the American Dental Association, Louisiana Dental Association, and Academy of General Dentistry. To learn more about dental implants or to schedule a consultation, visit her website or call (504) 833-2220.