When it comes to modern tooth replacement options, dental implants certainly rank as number one. These titanium posts can successfully integrate with a patient’s jawbone to offer optimal stability for their brand-new pearly whites, and the results are lifelike and long-lasting. However, some people wonder if they can potentially rust due to their metallic structure. Fortunately, the likelihood of this happening is extremely low. Here’s why!
Why Don’t Dental Implants Rust?
Although dental implants are titanium and have the potential to rust, the chances of this ever happening within your mouth and gum tissue are incredibly unlikely. The environment in your oral cavity isn’t favorable for the development of rust on your metal posts due to saliva production—a natural protectant against corrosion. Furthermore, the companies that manufacture dental implants use rigorous standards to process and design their products, which are constructed out of the highest quality of materials.
Is It Possible to Prevent Rusty Dental Implants?
Even with a very low risk of getting rusty dental implants, some patients want to completely ensure that there’s an absence of potential corrosion. For this reason, many dentists offer solutions that aren’t titanium-based. For example, you might consider zirconia implants, which are ceramic, durable, biocompatible, and immune to rusting. That said, this option can also come with its unique set of cons that you’ll want to review before moving forward with your treatment. Make sure to consult your implant dentist so they can help determine the best approach to restoring your missing teeth.
Ways to Keep Dental Implants From Rusting
To further lower your chance of rusty dental implants as well as to simply preserve them for longer, you’ll want to implement several preventive measures for proper care. These should include:
- Keep up with your oral hygiene: Dental implants can easily become ruined due to periodontal disease and nearby tooth decay. Brushing, flossing, and rinsing with mouthwash every day will help ensure your gums and other remaining pearly whites are free of bacteria and plaque.
- Maintain a healthy diet: Since your metal posts will help you enjoy a more natural and strong bite, you’ll want to expand your dietary choices to include healthier foods such as fruits, veggies, lean protein, and dairy products that would otherwise be difficult to chew. Avoid sugary and starchy treats that can increase the risk of cavities and bacteria.
- Visit your dentist for checkups: You should schedule biannual visits with your dentist so that they can monitor your oral health and dental implants. They’ll provide the necessary treatments if they detect any underlying issues so your new teeth can live a healthy and long life.
While dental implants have a low chance of rusting, proper care is needed if you want to make the most of your restorations. Keep these tips in mind, and you shouldn’t have to worry about any complications in the long run!
About the Author
For well over three decades, Dr. L. Blaine Kennington has been providing excellent and personalized dental care for his patients. Not only is he an active member of organizations like the American Dental Association and the American Academy of Implant Dentistry, but he’s also a founding member of a prestigious group known as Advanced Dental Implant Studies (ADIS). If you have questions about preserving your dental implants or wish to schedule a visit, don’t hesitate to check out our website or call our office at 360-274-9100.