Are Dental Implants Vulnerable to Tooth Infections Like Cavities?

Dental implants are the best way to replace lost teeth because they look, feel, and work just like the real thing and can last a lifetime with excellent care. Since these dental prosthetic devices work just like real teeth, you may be wondering if they are vulnerable to the same infections. Here’s what you should know about dental implants and cavities as well as a few tips to help you keep your new teeth healthy and beautiful.

What Causes Cavities?

Tooth decay such as cavities is caused by harmful oral bacteria, and excessive sugar consumption is one of the best ways to ensure that these germs have the fuel they need to blight your smile with nasty and destructive infections. Cavities begin when these bacteria start eating away at the enamel, and the infection will eventually reach the soft pulp at the center of the tooth if left untreated. This causes a miserably painful toothache that can lead to tooth loss and potentially dangerous secondary infections.

Can Dental Implants Get Cavities?

Since dental implants are crafted from high-quality and durable materials such as titanium and ceramics, they are completely immune to the harmful oral bacteria that cause cavities. However, infections of the gums and jawbones supporting them can cause implant failure as well as many other oral health problems, making excellent oral hygiene imperative.

How Can I Keep My Dental Implants Healthy?

One of the major advantages dental implants have over other restorations is that they only require the same oral hygiene routine as real teeth to stay healthy. To keep your implants in excellent shape, stick to a daily regimen that includes:

• Brushing after waking
• Flossing at least once
• Using antibacterial mouthwash
• Brushing before bed
• Additional brushings and flossings between meals and snacks if necessary

Dental implants can dramatically enhance your quality of life, so it only makes sense that you’ll want to do what you can to protect your investment. By practicing excellent oral hygiene, limiting your sugar consumption, and seeing your dentist regularly, you can keep your newly completed smile in great shape for life.

About the Author

Dr. James T. Sierra earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio with research interests in implantology. He has completed more than 1,200 hours of continuing education since graduating and serves as a Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry and the International Congress of Oral Implantology. His office in Friendswood offers preventive, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry as well as dental implants. To learn more about caring for your implants, contact his office online or dial (281) 482-2631.