Implant dentistry is a popular form of teeth replacement due to its advantages over alternative options such as removable dentures and fixed bridges. Although dental implants are not at risk of decay, protecting natural teeth from decay remains crucial in keeping an attractive and healthy smile.
You can protect your natural teeth and implant dentistry restorations from tooth decay through good oral hygiene, a proper diet, avoiding (or limiting) alcohol and tobacco, and visiting the dentist for regular check-ups. This review discusses implant dentistry and tooth decay risks.
Implant dentistry involves the use of dental implants and dental restorations, which are usually either crowns, bridges, or complete dentures. Dental implants are small, screw-like posts that are surgically placed into the jawbone to support the replacement teeth. Implant dentistry offers unique benefits that traditional methods of teeth replacement cannot, such as the ability to preserve jawbone density, fewer dietary restrictions, and an easy time caring for your smile long-term.
As mentioned, dental implants use either a crown, bridge, or denture restoration, depending on how many teeth are being replaced and their location. The restorations are generally made of a ceramic material that is not vulnerable to tooth decay. However, the restorations can begin to stain or become damaged due to dental trauma, bruxism, biting too hard on foods, or poor oral hygiene.
One of the benefits of implant restorations is that they are easy to care for through good oral hygiene practices, similar to how patients can protect their natural teeth and gums. This should include brushing several times each day, flossing and using mouthwash, and avoiding foods that are high in carbohydrates (i.e., sugar). Poor lifestyle choices and hygiene habits, such as smoking and tobacco use, can increase the risk of early implant failure as well by damaging the gums and underlying jawbone (periodontal health), weakening the support of the dental implants.
Unless the patient is replacing all of their teeth, their dentist will still want to do everything possible to avoid tooth decay on natural teeth. This is primarily accomplished by educating on good oral care practices and scheduling regular check-ups and cleaning visits to prevent plaque and tartar accumulation on the enamel surface. In addition, following the oral care practices recommended by the dentist on how to care for teeth between cleaning visits can help protect periodontal (gum) health as well.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Implant Dentist in Long Grove, IL
Implant dentistry restorations can replace one tooth, a section of teeth, or an entire row, depending on your teeth replacement needs. If you are considering tooth replacement or want to know more about your options and the benefits of implant dentistry, call us or send us a message today.
Request an appointment or call Long Grove Dental at 847-636-5020 for an appointment in our Long Grove office.
Implant dentistry makes everyday activities easier. After tooth loss occurs, certain activities can become more of a challenge, and it can affect the person’s appearance and level of confidence. The good news is that many restore their confidence level and improve their ability to eat, speak, and care for their smile each day with implant…
Implant dentistry involves the replacement of natural teeth after tooth loss occurs using titanium posts (known as dental implants) and the attachment of a restoration, such as a dental crown, dental bridge, or denture. A bone graft is often necessary before an implant dentistry procedure, particularly when there is not enough healthy bone inside the…
Implant dentistry includes the entire treatment implant process, from the consultation visit to providing aftercare and educational services to ensure the implants remain in good condition. The following review discusses how you can get the most out of your dental implants through good aftercare practices.You can care for your dental implant restoration by implementing a…
Dentists generally recommend dental implants as a natural choice for replacing missing teeth. If you play sports regularly, especially contact sports, you may be worried about continued participation after having your lost teeth replaced. This article covers what you need to know about playing sports with dental implants.Every sport has required skills, levels of fitness…
Dental phobia is typically classified as a more severe form of dental anxiety. It leads many people to avoid visiting the dentist altogether, and those who do visit the dentist battle through fear and severe anxiety. The good news is that there are effective ways for a general dentist to help patients who struggle with…