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Dental implants are artificial roots made of titanium or a titanium alloy. These roots support artificial teeth, usually made of porcelain or a special resin. These substances are not subject to decay, but they can harbor the bacteria that causes gum disease and decay in your remaining teeth.

How Can Decay or Gum Disease Affect My Dental Implants?

Although dental implants themselves cannot decay, the overall health of your mouth is important to long-term success of your implants. Taking good care of your implants is also important to the overall health of your mouth. Just like natural teeth, implants can collect bacteria, plaque, and tartar, which can lead to the decay of your remaining teeth or the development of gingivitis or gum disease.

If you have dental implants, it’s important to avoid gum disease in particular. For implants to remain successfully imbedded in the jawbone, the gums must be healthy to help support them. Gum disease can cause the gums to draw back from the artificial roots just like they can with natural tooth roots. This can cause the implants to become loose or even fall out.

Keeping Your Implants Healthy

To keep your implants healthy, keep the rest of your mouth healthy and clean. Regular brushing and flossing are vital. You should also follow all instructions our periodontist provides for caring for your implants. Floss around your abutments, clean your new teeth regularly to prevent bacterial buildup that could lead to plaque or tartar, and visit the dentist regularly to have your remaining teeth evaluated, as well as your gums.

If you notice any signs that your implants might be loose or that your gums might be inflamed, visit our periodontist as soon as possible. The sooner you receive treatment for inflamed gums or more advanced gum disease, the more likely you will have a quick and successful recovery. If gum disease is left untreated, though, it could lead to serious side effects, including the loss of your implants.

Call our office and set up your next appointment.