If you’re considering dental implants, or already have them, you’ve probably wondered: Can dental implants get cavities? It’s one of the most common questions patients ask when researching long-term tooth replacement options, and for good reason. Cavities are a major cause of tooth loss, so understanding how implants behave differently from natural teeth can bring peace of mind and help you protect your investment.
The short answer is no, dental implants themselves cannot get cavities. But that doesn’t mean implants are completely maintenance-free or immune to other oral health issues. In this article, we’ll break down why implants don’t get cavities, what problems can still occur, and how to keep your dental implants healthy for decades.
To understand why dental implants can’t get cavities, it helps to first understand what a cavity actually is.
A cavity (also known as dental caries) forms when bacteria in the mouth feed on sugars and carbohydrates, producing acids that gradually break down tooth enamel. Over time, this erosion creates holes in the tooth structure, which can spread deeper into the dentin and pulp if left untreated.
Cavities only occur in natural tooth material, specifically enamel and dentin, both of which are absent in dental implants.
Dental implants are artificial tooth replacements designed to mimic the function of natural teeth, but not their biological structure.
A complete dental implant system includes:
Because these materials are not organic, bacteria cannot erode them the way they erode natural tooth enamel.
Dental implants are immune to cavities for several important reasons:
Cavities form when acids weaken enamel. Since implants don’t have enamel, there’s nothing for decay-causing bacteria to break down.
Titanium and zirconia are biocompatible but non-porous, meaning bacteria cannot penetrate or dissolve them.
Natural teeth contain pulp tissue that can become infected by deep cavities. Dental implants do not, so traditional decay pathways simply don’t exist.
According to the American Academy of Implant Dentistry, dental implants have a success rate of over 95%, largely due to their resistance to decay-related failure.
Yes. While implants can’t get cavities, they are not immune to other dental issues, especially if oral hygiene is neglected. Below are the most common dental problems that can affect dental implants.
One of the most significant risks to dental implants is peri-implant disease, a condition caused by bacterial infection around the implant.
Research published in the Journal of Clinical Periodontology estimates that peri-implantitis affects approximately 20% of dental implant patients over time.
Even though dental implants do not decay, plaque still forms on and around them.
If plaque is not removed:
This is why daily brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings are just as important with dental implants as they are with natural teeth.
Dental implants rely on a process called osseointegration, where the jawbone fuses to the implant post.
Bone loss around implants can occur when:
While the implant itself can’t decay, the prosthetic tooth attached to it can still be damaged.
Possible issues include:
The good news? In most cases, the crown can be repaired or replaced without removing the implant.
Dental implants don’t require complicated care, but they do require consistent care.
With proper care, dental implants can last 20+ years or even a lifetime.
If you’re tired of dealing with recurring cavities, failing dental work, or missing teeth, dental implants may be the solution you’ve been looking for.
At Stubbs Dental Implant Center, we specialize in advanced dental implant solutions designed to restore confidence, comfort, and function.
Schedule your complimentary dental implant consultation today to find out if you’re a candidate and take the first step toward a healthier, worry-free smile.