Dental implants are used to replace a lost tooth. The device is positioned in the bone of the jaw through an incision in the gums and grows increasingly secure as the healing process goes on.

During the healing of an implant wound, osseointegration, which is the integration of the bone tissue with the implanted device, takes place.

Once a dental implant is securely in place, it should be treated practically the same as a natural tooth. Here are a few reasons why:

A Dental Implant Can Be Damaged by Excessive Bite Pressure

A natural tooth can be irreparably damaged by bite pressure, and so can a dental implant. When a natural tooth incurs too much pressure, it may chip, crack, or break. If a break divides the tooth through the dental roots, the tooth cannot be salvaged.

As too much bite pressure is received by a dental implant, the device can shift in the jawbone, disrupting the connection between the bone and the implant. Once the integration of the bone and dental implant is lost, the implant will not re-stabilize within the mouth. Instead, the device must be removed, and the implant must be replaced.

Thus, it is important to avoid chewing on overly hard items that are not suitable for natural teeth. Also, if you suffer from bruxism, you should always wear your mouth guard as you sleep. The pressure incurred by an implant as the teeth of your upper palate grind against those of your lower jaw can be quite severe.

A Dental Implant Can Fail Due to Gum Disease

Gum disease is the primary cause of natural tooth loss. However, it can also cause a dental implant failure. 

Gum problems often occur due to inadequate oral hygiene. Thus, if you have a dental implant, you should brush and floss regularly as you would with a natural tooth.

The gums become inflamed from their exposure to bacterial acids. The acids, which bacteria release as they metabolize simple carbohydrates in the mouth, can build up in the oral cavity as plaque accumulates. 

The inflammation of the gums around a dental implant can negatively affect the implant wound's ability to heal. As a result, an implant may not stabilize properly within the jawbone, leading to implant failure. Also, an infection of the gums can spread to the jawbone, preventing the bone cells from growing around the implant properly.

If you have a dental implant and are concerned about the proper care of the device, schedule a consultation with a dentist in your local area.