Do Dental Implants Get Cavities? 

Dental implants are a fantastic way to restore missing teeth. They look and feel natural and require little maintenance. In fact, taking care of implants is as simple as taking care of your natural teeth. Does that mean dental implants can get cavities like the rest of your teeth? 

Keep reading to find out! 

Can Dental Implants Get Decayed? 

No, dental implants can't get cavities. An implant has three parts - a titanium post, an abutment, and a dental crown. All of these are made from durable materials that don't decay like natural teeth. 

Why Is Oral Health Still Important? 

Dr. Emily will stress about the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene to protect your implant. But, if dental implants don't get cavities, why does it matter? 

While the implant per se can't be affected by decay, the surrounding tissue can still suffer if not cleaned properly. If plaque and bacteria accumulated on the gums around the implant, it can lead to peri-implantitis, a condition similar to gum disease that can affect the implant and even cause it to fail. Not to mention, the teeth around the implant are still susceptible to decay and can get cavities in the absence of good oral hygiene. 

Taking Care of a Dental Implant Is Easy 

As we said, dental implants require minimal maintenance. But, these simple tips can ensure that your implant will last a lifetime: 

• Brush your teeth and implants at least twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and floss daily.
• Use non-abrasive toothpaste to avoid scratching the surface of your dental implants.
• If you're a smoker, now would be the best time to give this habit up. Smoking can cause the bone structure to weaken, and weak bones can't support dental implants very well.
• Avoid hard and sticky foods as they can damage the crown attached to your implants. 
• Visit a dentist near you regularly (every six months or as recommended) for professional cleaning and to ensure your dental implants are in good condition.

Do You Want to Learn More About Implants? Schedule Your Appointment Today!

We understand if you have more questions about dental implants - sometimes they sound too good to be true. They can be an amazing restoration for the right person. However, not everyone is a good candidate for implants and you need to go through a thorough evaluation process to ensure this is the best treatment for you. 

Dr. Emily can take you through all the pros and cons of implants and help you determine if they truly are what you need. She will also develop a personalized treatment plan for you so you can leave our practice with the best and healthiest smile. 

If you are ready to begin your dental restoration journey, get in touch with us online or call (608) 462-8282 to book your appointment.