Dentists laud dental implants because they look, feel, and work just like real teeth so that people with tooth loss can enjoy the many benefits of a complete smile. Since these prosthetic devices are so incredibly lifelike, many prospective patients may wonder if they are vulnerable to the same infections as real teeth. Here’s a brief guide to why excellent oral hygiene is still necessary regardless of how many implants you have.
Can Dental Implants Get Cavities?
Cavities are dental infections that occur in the enamel of your teeth, and, if left untreated, they will only get worse until the tooth is lost. Since dental implants are made from durable materials like titanium and porcelain, they are immune to the destructive effects of harmful oral bacteria and will never get cavities. However, they can still be compromised by infections of the gums.
How Can Gum Disease Destroy My Dental Implants?
Gum disease is the leading cause of implant failure, and it is usually caused by poor oral hygiene. While gum disease may seem minor and be easy to reverse in its early stage of gingivitis, it will progress to the much more destructive phase of periodontitis if it is left untreated. At that stage, the patient will experience symptoms like gum recession and jawbone erosion that can lead to the loss of dental implants and natural teeth alike. The problem may even lead to serious secondary infections like sepsis.
How Can I Deal with Gum Disease?
The best way to deal with gum disease is to prevent it in the first place. Thankfully, this is easy to do by brushing at least twice and flossing once daily while using antibacterial mouthwash regularly. It’s also a great idea to quit smoking, avoid excessive sugar and alcohol consumption, and see your dentist regularly for exams and cleanings.
However, your periodontist is trained and equipped to address gum disease whenever it happens through several treatments. They may recommend regular periodontal cleanings to eliminate recurring accumulations of plaque and bacteria beneath the gumline or scaling and root planing to help the roots of your teeth reintegrate with your soft tissues.
Don’t let gum disease compromise your beautiful dental implants and natural teeth. With good hygiene and help from your dentist, you can avoid these nasty infections and their unpleasant consequences.
About the Author
Dr. Marcos E. Garcia earned his dental degree at the University of Texas School of Dentistry at Houston where he also completed his post-graduate training in periodontics. He is proud to be a member of the American Academy of Periodontology and the American Dental Association. His office in Corpus Christi offers periodontal therapy, dental implants, and sedation dentistry. To learn more about proper dental implant care, contact his office online or dial (361) 992-7641.