Are Dental Implants Prone to Disease and Decay?
For many, tooth decay or gum disease is what caused them to lose their teeth. Therefore, it is a valid question to want to know whether their dental implant replacement tooth can from suffer the same fate. When it comes to dental implants and their susceptibility to cavities and gum disease, the answer is more complicated than you may think.
To provide clarity on this topic, it helps to understand the anatomy and function of a dental implant. The implant itself is a titanium screw that is surgically placed into your jawbone. This prosthetic post or tooth root is not directly affected by the bacteria that causes decay and disease. The same goes for the prosthetic tooth, which is the dental implant restoration placed on top, such as a crown, bridge or denture. In other words, acids and bacteria are not going to eat away at a dental implant the same way they do a natural tooth. However, dental implant patients are not off the hook entirely when it comes to dental health problems.
While the dental implant itself is not directly vulnerable, surrounding gum disease can significantly affect the longevity of the implant. If allowed to progress, gum disease destroys surrounding bone. Without proper strength and support from the jawbone, the implant can lose stability. A failing dental implant will need to be replaced.
Dental implants are designed to last for decades, but they require a lifetime of proper oral care. Keeping your mouth free of decay and disease is a critical component of protecting your dental implant investment. Dr. Wayne Suway is an exceptional implant dentist who instructs patients on the proper ways to care for their new smile. We understand that dental implants provide unsurpassed convenience compared to other tooth replacement methods. However, just like your natural teeth, they need proper care to stay healthy.
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