Millions of people have chosen to replace their missing teeth with dental implants. They restore your bite while preserving your jawbone, giving you back confidence in your smile. This tooth replacement option is often made of metal, so many wonder if their new teeth will rust over time. Continue reading to learn the truth and why it may not be as big a worry as you’re thinking.
So, Will My Dental Implant Rust?
In short, there is a slim chance that your implant rusts, but it largely depends on the type of material it is. Gold and stainless-steel options are more likely to corrode, but biocompatible titanium has a lower chance, too.
The latter metal is made with an oxide layer, which is helpful in preventing any corrosion. While this does offer some protection, there is a rare scenario where a patient finds themselves in this situation. It often happens due to wet corrosion, where the electrolytes and ions in saliva cause reactions when coming into contact with metal.
Even though the chance to experience this is a small fraction, the concern has led to another material being used, called zirconia. This is commonly used like titanium, but it is ceramic, so it can’t rust. It has its own set of benefits and drawbacks, so you can find the right material for you by talking to your dentist.
Should I Still Get Dental Implants?
The risk of corrosion in titanium implants is such a small chance that the many benefits of this treatment outweigh it! They blend in seamlessly with your smile, meaning that you can have the confidence to show it off to those around you. As was mentioned above, they restore up to 90% of your original bite force, while other tooth replacement options don’t get that close.
Additionally, you can preserve your jawbone structure. The implant posts fuse with your jaw, providing the stimulation it needs to stay strong and healthy.
Remember these many benefits while choosing what’s best for your oral health. Don’t let a fear of corrosion stop you from getting the care you need when the risk of it is minor compared to the major benefits. You can always talk to your dentist about the different material options you have for your implants, so you get back to having a grin that’s strong and lasts for years to come.
About the Author
Dr. Kyle Sharp earned his dental degree from the Texas A&M School of Dentistry. He uses his expertise and knowledge to give the Fort Smith community high-quality care. Dr. Sharp places dental implants in-house, so you have the convenience of staying with a team that you trust and feel confident around. If you want to learn more about this tooth replacement option, schedule an appointment or call (479) 648-9988.