If you have gaps in your beam, missing teeth can be replaced with dental implants. They provide a remarkable amount of bite force and last for years or even a lifetime with proper care. Despite tooth enamel being the strongest material in the human body, are dental implants even stronger? Continue reading to learn the answer to this question as well as why dental implants are so strong.
Are Dental Implants Stronger Than Your Natural Teeth?
The answer to whether dental implants are stronger than natural teeth is complex. While dental implants are rarely prone to cracking or breaking and can last upward of 30 years, they cannot be compared to natural teeth as they are not subject to decay.
While dental implants are very durable, it’s still possible for them to crack like natural teeth. However, the likelihood of this happening depends on the specific part of the implant, so a thorough understanding of how they work is necessary to answer the question in detail.
What Parts of Dental Implants Are Strongest?
Modern dental implants consist of three parts: the post, abutment, and crown. The post, made of titanium, is the most durable part. This is because it fuses with the jawbone through osseointegration, which helps make the post incredibly strong and stable. The abutment, composed of titanium, is the next strongest part of the implant and is also highly resistant to damage.
The crown, typically made of porcelain, is the part of the dental implant that most closely resembles the strength of a natural tooth. However, it is still susceptible to damage from excessive pressure or chronic teeth grinding.
How to Keep Your Dental Implant
Although dental implants may be stronger than your natural teeth, it’s still important to take care of them to ensure their longevity. You can do this by:
- Practicing good oral hygiene – This includes brushing twice a day and flossing nightly.
- Avoid chewing on hard objects – Chewing on ice, hard candy, or other hard foods or items can damage the crown or other implant restoration.
- Use a mouthguard – If you grind your teeth or clench your jaw (bruxism), this will help prevent damage to the implant and surrounding teeth.
- Visit your dentist regularly – Biannual checkups and cleanings will ensure that the implant remains in good condition.
- Avoid smoking – Not smoking or using other tobacco products will help decrease your risk of implant failure.
- Keep your dentist updated – Let them know of any changes or issues with your implant as soon as possible to prevent further damage.
About Our Practice
Cosmetic & Restorative Dentistry of the Keys provides comprehensive dental care, including dental implants, to stabilize and enhance their patients’ smiles. Using cutting-edge technology and an empathetic approach, their Big Pine Key team offers personalized care. Their two highly skilled dentists have years of experience in providing exceptional dental care, ensuring their patients receive the highest quality treatment available. Call Cosmetic & Restorative Dentistry of the Keys at (305) 680-1553 or visit their website for more information on dental implants or to set up an appointment.