If you are missing teeth and are looking for ways to fill them in, then you might’ve run into dental implants. This treatment is considered the gold standard among tooth replacement options as it restores the look, feel, and function effectively. However, since they act just like natural teeth in the end, many people wonder if they should worry about cavities. Here’s what you need to know.
So, Can My Dental Implants Get Cavities?
Dental implants are made from high-quality materials, the fixture itself oftentimes being titanium or zirconia, and the restoration being porcelain. However, regardless of the part, they can’t get cavities. That’s because the bacteria in your mouth can’t dissolve them as they do with natural enamel.
This doesn’t mean that your full smile is immune to any problems from plaque in your mouth. Instead, they may attack gum and bone tissue that support the tooth replacement. When these structures become infected, it causes peri-implantitis. The soft tissues may become noticeably red and tender, causing your implant to be painful or loose. When left untreated, it can even cause failure.
How Can I Properly Care for My Dental Implants?
While this tooth replacement can’t decay like natural enamel, it can still be threatened by bacteria in your mouth. It’s important that you do your best in preventing any oral health issues, and thankfully, it can be as easy as following simple tips! Here are some you can add to your routine:
- Brush for two full minutes twice every day. This will remove a large portion of plaque that’s on your smile, keeping it strong for longer.
- Floss every day to get rid of debris and bacteria between your teeth that can’t be reached by your toothbrush.
- Rinse with antibacterial mouthwash to ensure you get as much as you can! Just ensure it doesn’t have alcohol.
You should also be visiting your dentist twice every year! By having consistent checkups and cleanings, they can make sure that your smile is in great shape and there aren’t any dental problems arising. If there are, then you can get the prompt treatment you deserve for a higher chance of successfully recovering your implant. You can even get advice about your oral hygiene routine to tie up any loose ends.
Follow these simple tips, and you can make sure that bacteria don’t threaten your full smile! Instead, you can feel confident knowing it’s staying the best it can be for decades to come.
About the Practice
At West Arvada Family Dental, you benefit from the compassionate leadership of Dr. Jeramiah Paylor and Dr. Matthew Barry. We are happy to help the local community replace their missing teeth with reliable options like dental implants. By completing the entire process in-house, you can stay with a team you trust every step of the way. If you want to make sure your renewed grin is in great shape, schedule an appointment or call our office at (720) 776-4900.