Can Your Dental Implants Rust?

Dental implants are typically made out of metal. Naturally, this makes them very durable, especially when compared to traditional tooth replacement options. But if the implant posts consist of metal, does that mean they can rust or corrode? Getting the answer to this question is important for making sure that you’re prepared to take care of your new smile.

Do You Have to Worry About Your Dental Implants Rusting or Corroding?

Different metals are used in dentistry, but when it comes to dental implants, titanium is often the material of choice. This specific metal does not rust or corrode easily, and it can last in your mouth for decades at a time without issue. However, just because rust and corrosion are rare does not mean they have no chance of occurring at all.

Your jawbone, your saliva, and your dental implants may react in certain ways that cause tiny pulses of electricity. Said pulses can contribute to corrosion, which may become a serious problem after a certain period of time. It should be emphasized, though, that only a very small percentage of patients have to deal with rusted or corroded dental implants.

Is There Anything You Can Do to Protect Dental Implants from Rust and Corrosion?

If you want to keep the risk of rust and corrosion to an absolute minimum, you need to think carefully about how you take care of your dental implants every day. One step that can definitely help is to schedule a consultation with your dentist every six months. They can check your implant posts for signs of corrosion, rust, and any other existing issues. Upon identifying a potential problem, they’ll let you know what you need to do to keep your entire smile safe.

You should also make sure that the area around your dental implants is as clean as possible. Make sure that you brush your dental implants as thoroughly as you would the rest of your smile, and pay close attention to the gumline. You should also make a habit of flossing as well; after all, your toothbrush alone can’t necessarily reach all of the bacteria that might cause problems for your dental implants.

Acidic foods and beverages could potentially increase the chances of your dental implants rusting. As such, you should avoid them as much as possible. Try substituting them for foods that are good for your overall oral health, such as fiber-rich vegetables.

The small possibility of rust and corrosion shouldn’t deter you from enjoying everything that dental implants have to offer. When properly placed and expertly restored, they can help you rebuild your smile in a way that both looks and feels natural.

About the Practice

At Wayland Dental, there are multiple compassionate dentists who are bringing patients truly comprehensive care with the help of the latest technology. You can schedule a dental implant consultation at our practice if you’re considering replacing your missing teeth from the roots up. You can set up your next visit at our office via our website or by calling (508) 651-0500.