You don’t have to settle for less than the best when treating your tooth loss. A dental implant is the only method to replicate both the root and the crown. A titanium post is surgically inserted into your jawbone to serve as a new root. Your bone will fuse to it through a process called osseointegration, providing unmatched support for your restoration that will be connected using an abundant. Although you might worry the implant will rust because your mouth is moist, there’s no reason to fret. It’s very unlikely for titanium to rust, and here’s why.
Dental Implants Can’t Rust
Many metals can rust in moist environments, so it’s normal to have a few concerns. There’s no reason to worry because dental implants are made of titanium, which is biocompatible. Titanium doesn’t have any reaction in your body while being incredibly strong.
Titanium won’t corrode, unlike gold and stainless steel. Titanium doesn’t contain iron like other metals. When iron is exposed to moisture, it causes iron oxide in your body, creating a toxin and can cause an infection.
It’s very rare for dental implants to rust. However, reactions with the metal, saliva, and jawbone can cause tiny pulses of electricity that may erode dental implants over time. Only a very small percentage of patients experience this type of corrosion. It’s most commonly seen with low-quality materials.
Good Oral Hygiene Prevents Rusting
Dental implants have over a 95% success rate and are proven to last for decades with the right care. You can minimize your risk of any complications, including rusting, by committing to keeping your mouth clean and healthy.
Brush your teeth for 2 minutes at least twice daily and floss every day before going to bed. Use an antimicrobial mouthwash to kill any bacteria left behind after brushing and flossing. It’s best to break any bad habits that can increase your risk of dental implant failure, like smoking, drinking a lot of alcohol, or using your teeth in place of scissors or other tools.
Don’t forget to visit your dentist every 6 months for a cleaning and checkup. They’ll remove any buildup and check your implants at each appointment to help you get the most from your investment.
If you develop any concerns in between your regular appointments, like redness, pain, or bleeding near the implant, contact your dentist right away. They’ll pinpoint the source of the problem to provide the quick care you need to prevent dental implant failure.
About Dr. Rodger Song
Dr. Song earned his dental degree from the Baylor College of Dentistry and has regularly pursued continuing education in many areas of specialty, including cosmetic dentistry, dental implants, and oral surgery. He offers the solutions you need to replace your missing teeth. Request an appointment through our website or call (972) 945-7587.