Can I Get a Cavity on My Dental Implant?

At Dental Solutions of Avon and Indy, we get a ton of great questions from our patients about their oral health and caring for their teeth. From questions about our treatments to questions about their at-home oral hygiene, we encourage our patients to ask us all their dental-related questions. Today, we want to address the question “Can I get a cavity on my dental implant?” by explaining what dental implants and cavities are.

What Is a Dental Implant?

Dental implants are natural-looking replacements for missing teeth. First, we insert a biocompatible titanium screw through the gums into the jawbone. This screw fuses with the bone to support a dental crown on top that looks and feels just like a natural tooth, and yet is made of synthetic materials. If you’re missing one tooth, a few teeth, or even all of your teeth, dental implants can restore your smile to full function and beauty.

What Is a Cavity?

When you eat, bacteria in your mouth are hard at work feasting upon and breaking down your food. These bacteria consume sugars and starches and produce acid as a by-product. Without daily oral care, this acid can dissolve and damage the protective enamel of your teeth. Over time, this results in a hole (cavity) on your teeth, which gives bad bacteria the opportunity to burrow deeper into your teeth, causing infection and tooth decay. You can protect yourself from cavities by practicing an exceptional oral care routine: brush your teeth twice daily for two minutes each time, brush your tongue daily, floss every day, and visit our office every six months for cleanings and exams.

Can I Get a Cavity In My Dental Implant?

The short answer is no. Implants are artificial teeth made of titanium and ceramic and are not susceptible to the bacteria that cause gum disease and cavities. However, this doesn’t mean you get a free pass to stop caring for your teeth! It is critical to keep your surrounding gum tissue, natural teeth, and bone healthy and strong to maintain the integrity of your implant. Daily oral hygiene and biannual dental visits will ensure your dental implants last many, many years.

More Questions? We Have Answers!

To ask our team additional questions about caring for your dental implants or oral health, or to schedule your next checkup at Dental Solutions of Avon and Indy, contact us today.