Dental implants are a popular option in Cotswold, North Carolina, for replacing missing or damaged teeth. However, as the world of dentistry advances, people are becoming more curious about the procedures. For example, there is one big misconception about dental implants, and that is that they can develop cavities.
The truth is that dental implants cannot cause cavities; it is impossible for that to happen. Dental implants are made of unnatural, artificial materials, such as titanium. On the other hand, real teeth develop cavities due to the decay of the tooth enamel. Since implants do not have enamel, they cannot develop cavities. However, the surrounding teeth and gums may still be in danger.
For Cotswold residents, maintaining their oral health is crucial. Neglecting dental implants Cotswold NC, after getting one, can lead to conditions like peri-implantitis– an infection affecting the gums and bone around the implant. To keep your implants in the best condition, it is important to regularly visit your dentist.
How dental implants differ from natural teeth
Dental implants differ from natural teeth in both their structure and materials. A dental implant consists of three main parts: the titanium post, the abutment, and the prosthetic crown. The titanium material is placed in your jawbone. However, the abutment connects the post to the prosthetic tooth, which looks like a natural tooth.
The titanium post is a strong and biocompatible material. This property helps it fuse better with the bone. This process of fusion is also known as osseointegration. Natural teeth have a layer of enamel, which is hard and protects your tooth.
However, implants are usually made from ceramic or porcelain, materials that mimic the appearance of enamel; however, they do not function the same way.
These materials are durable and can withstand normal wear and tear; however, again, they do not have the same protective qualities as enamel. Dental implants are also resistant to cavities. Unlike natural teeth, which are made of organic material that can decay, these implants are made from non-organic materials that do not decay.
As a result, they do not get cavities. However, it can still suffer from other issues if you do not take proper care of it.
Risks to dental implants despite cavity resistance
1. Peri-implantitis.
Your dental implants can be at risk of peri-implantitis, which is an inflammation of the gum tissue around the implant. It is similar to gum disease and can occur when plaque and bacteria build up around your implant. This inflammation can cause damage to the tissue and bone supporting the implant and even lead to implant failure.
2. Plaque and tartar build-up.
It is true that implants do not decay or get cavities; however, plaque and tartar may build up around your implants and affect them. If you do not remove the plaque properly, the bacteria can spread to the gum tissue and result in inflammation and infection. This can slowly harm your gums and bone surrounding the implant.
It is also important to know that the bacteria from plaque can also affect the tissues around the implant, even if the implant itself remains unaffected. If the infection spreads, it can cause pain, and you might need to remove the implant.
3. Adjacent natural teeth.
Your adjacent natural teeth can also impact the health of the implant. If cavities form in nearby teeth, they can cause problems for the implant. The bacteria from the cavities can spread to your gum line, which can affect the implant site.
Therefore, it is very important to take care of your mouth and maintain good oral hygiene. It will help you protect both your implant and the surrounding natural teeth.
Protect your dental implants in Cotswold!
While implants are cavity-resistant, peri-implantitis is a risk. Visit your dentist regularly and ensure proper implant care. Schedule a consultation today for a healthy smile!
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