Can Dental Implants Get Cavities?

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By Modern Smiles - Dentist Pocatello

Have you spent a fortune on dental implants? Are you thinking they’re invincible? Think again.

Dental implants look perfect and also feel permanent. However, do they stay perfect forever?

If you brush less after getting dental implants, you’re not alone. Many assume they don’t need care. Moreover, if dental visits feel optional now, that’s a risky myth.

Dental implants can’t get cavities. It sounds logical. However, there’s more to it. If you ignore dental implants, it can cost your smile and your health.

Have you ever heard of implant failure because of gum disease? It’s more popular than you realize.

Can Dental Implants Get Cavities?

No, dental implants can’t develop cavities. Natural teeth are different. However, implants aren’t organic. Implants utilize titanium for the root and ceramic or porcelain for the crown. They can’t decay like enamel or dentin.

Cavities occur when bacteria digest natural tooth surfaces. However, implants aren’t exposed to that risk, which is great news for anyone invested in their smile with dental implants in Pocatello.

However, this doesn’t mean you’re entirely safe from oral health issues. Although the implant itself is resistant, the surrounding tissues still need protection.

A dentist can confirm that while implants won’t rot, poor hygiene can still harm them. So yes, rejoice—dental implants won’t develop cavities. However, you should not ditch your toothbrush just yet. Preventive care still matters.

But That Doesn’t Mean They’re Maintenance-Free

Implants cannot rot. However, they can be lost because of gum disease. A significant risk is peri-implantitis, an inflammatory disease like periodontitis. This infection invades the gum and bone supporting dental implants.

If you leave them unchecked, it will lead to bone loss and implant failure. Bacteria and plaque do not discriminate regarding what your teeth are made of. They’ll build up around implants just the same as around natural teeth.

The surrounding soft tissues on implants must be cleaned, as this will significantly prevent inflammation and infection. If implants aren’t cared for, they become loose and painful and sometimes need to be removed.

Oral hygiene is indispensable, just like with real teeth. Your dentist will emphasize keeping the implant base clean. If you slack off, it will immensely permit bacteria to penetrate deep under the gums.

Implants function for many years, but only with your maintenance. Regular dental check-ups are essential to detect early warning signs of peri-implant disease. You should take your dental implants as seriously as your natural teeth.

How to Take Care of Dental Implants?

Consider brushing dental implants twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste. You must floss gently around the implant area to avoid plaque accumulation. Moreover, you have to clean hard-to-reach areas using interdental brushes.

You must visit your dentist every six months for a dental cleaning and examination. In addition, you must look for warning signs such as bleeding gums, bad breath, or sensitivity near implants. Early action averts severe complications. With proper care, implants can last an entire lifetime. Your smile is worth daily effort and professional guidance.

If you notice anything unusual, you must see our dentists immediately. Dental implants are an investment for a lifetime. Therefore, you need to keep them healthy and strong.

Make an appointment today to keep your dental implants problem-free. A confident smile starts with regular care.

Want to understand more about how infections can jeopardize your dental implants? Check out our detailed blog on The Risk of Infection With Dental Implants.

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