Are Dental Implants Stronger Than Your Teeth?

Dental implants serve as artificial tooth roots, offering a strong and long-lasting solution for replacing missing teeth. With proper care, they provide significant biting power that can endure for long periods. While natural tooth enamel is the toughest substance in the human body, it can still be damaged. Surprisingly, dental implants can surpass the strength of natural enamel. Read on to explore the reasons behind their exceptional durability.

Are Dental Implants Stronger Than Your Natural Teeth?

Dental implants can last for over 30 years, or even a lifetime, without cracking, breaking, or succumbing to tooth decay. However, directly comparing them to natural teeth is not straightforward. It’s not simply a matter of yes or no.

Although dental implants are sturdy, they can still crack like your natural teeth. However, the likelihood of this occurring varies depending on the specific aspect of the implant. Providing a comprehensive explanation requires a thorough understanding of how dental implants function and interact with their environment.

What Parts of Dental Implants Are Strongest?

Modern dental implants consist of three main components: the post, the abutment, and the crown. Among these, the titanium post is the strongest. It firmly bonds with the jawbone through osseointegration, providing impressive strength and stability. The titanium abutment is also highly durable and resistant to damage. Together, these components create a sturdy foundation for dental implants, ensuring long-lasting support and functionality.

The crown of a dental implant, typically made of porcelain, can closely mimic the strength of a natural tooth. However, it remains vulnerable to damage from excessive pressure or frequent teeth grinding. Maintaining good oral hygiene and avoiding excessive force are essential to preserve the strength and integrity of the implant crown for an extended period.

How to Keep Your Dental Implant

Ensuring the long-term success of your dental implants requires proper care, despite their strength surpassing that of natural teeth. Here’s how to achieve this:

• Maintain good oral hygiene – Make it a habit to brush your teeth twice a day and floss every night before bed.
• Avoid chewing on hard objects – Avoid biting down on hard foods or objects, such as ice or hard candy, to prevent any harm to the crown or implant.
• Use a mouthguard – Protect your implants and surrounding teeth from damage by using a mouthguard to address teeth grinding or jaw clenching (bruxism).
• Regular dental visits – Regular checkups and cleanings every six months are essential to preserve the health of your implant.
• Quit smoking – Steering clear of tobacco products lowers the chances of implant failure.
• Keep your dentist informed – Inform your dental professional promptly about any changes or issues concerning your implant to avoid additional damage.

About Our Practice

At Lancaster Family Smiles, our top priority is ensuring the comfort and safety of our patients. Our office environment is warm and inviting, catering to individuals of all ages to ensure a positive experience for everyone. We specialize in dental implants to enhance smiles and provide stability. Our dental team is committed to educating patients on effective oral hygiene practices, with the goal of maximizing the longevity of their natural teeth and dental implants. For more information about dental implants or to schedule an appointment, contact Lancaster Family Smiles at (469) 729-7707 or visit our website.