If you’re getting a dental implant or considering them as a restorative treatment for missing teeth, you may be wondering if they can get cavities like natural teeth. Here, we’ll discuss what a dental implant is and whether or not they can suffer from tooth decay.
A dental implant is made up of an artificial tooth root and a restoration custom-made to look like your natural teeth. The implant itself is a titanium post that is surgically inserted into your jawbone. If you have a healthy jawbone and healthy gums, this biocompatible titanium will fuse with your jawbone to create a solid foundation that acts just like a tooth root. There is also a piece called an abutment, which connects the titanium implant to the final piece, the restoration. The restoration is a crown, bridge, or denture that is designed to match your natural teeth.
Before we begin the placement process, we’ll meet with you for a consultation to discuss your oral health needs and smile goals. We'll also take digital dental X-rays to decide whether your jawbone can support a dental implant. If you and our team decide a dental implant is the right treatment option, we’ll get you ready for the implant placement process.
The first step is to surgically place the dental implant into the jawbone at the spot where you have a missing tooth. In a few months, once you are healed from this procedure and the implant has fused with your jawbone, you’ll come back in for the restoration placement. We’ll connect the bridge, crown, or denture to your implant, giving you the smile of your dreams.
No, you cannot get cavities in your dental implant. This is because the restoration is not a real tooth, but an artificial one, and is not susceptible to decay. However, it is very important that you take care of your dental implant, your remaining natural teeth, and your gums because there are other dental issues that can come up if you have poor oral hygiene. For example, peri-implantitis is an inflammatory condition that affects the tissue that’s around the implant. Symptoms include bleeding gums and sensitivity around the implant, and more advanced peri-implantitis could cause bone loss and gum recession. Additionally, gum disease and infection can compromise the integrity of your implant and also lead to loss of your other natural teeth.
You should treat your dental implants and restorations as you would normal teeth. Practice excellent oral hygiene by brushing twice a day for two minutes each time, flossing at least once a day, and using a fluoride toothpaste. In addition, consume a healthy diet, drink plenty of water, and visit Ammons Dental By Design every six months for regular checkups and cleanings.
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