At least three decades have passed since dental experts started using dental implants to replace damaged or missing teeth. Dental implants are so durable that they can function as effectively as natural teeth. According to the American Dental Association, these dental appliances are the strongest, most reliable replacements you can have for your teeth. Although this is true, you may be thinking about how dental implants compare to natural teeth in terms of strength. If you want to understand the durability of dental implants, here is what you need to know.

Their Strength Relies on Your Jawbone

The stability of titanium dental implants depends on the health of your jawbone. During osseointegration, your jawbone heals around your implants. Your dental implants will remain sturdy if you have a strong jawbone that recovers well. Remember that your natural teeth move a little because ligaments and roots attach them to your gums. Because dental implants are fixed into your jawbone, they do not and should not move at all. This immobility and permanence make your dental implants tougher than natural teeth. Healthy jawbones can stabilize your dental implants so they can function optimally as you speak, chew, or bite.

In case your jawbone is not strong enough, you should have a bone graft first. This will strengthen your jawbone and support your dental implants more, once they come in. During a bone grafting procedure, your dental implant in Sherman, Texas will take a piece of bone from another part of your body and then place it in the deteriorated part of your jawbone. Doing so will encourage bone regeneration, making your jawbone fit to accommodate dental implants.

They Are Not Prone to Tooth Decay

Natural teeth are susceptible to tooth decay and cavities. Your mouth hosts bacteria that thrive because of the carbohydrates you eat. These organisms excrete acids that corrode the enamel of your teeth. Eventually, cavities will form. If tooth decay is not treated, tooth loss is inevitable.

Unlike natural teeth, dental implants cannot decay at all. Bacteria in your mouth cannot corrode ceramic crowns, titanium posts, and abutments. Because of this, your dental implants can serve you better and longer than natural teeth.

​​​​​​​They Have Titanium

Dental experts say that the most durable parts of a dental implant are the abutment and the post. The post functions as a root that your dental implant dentist places into your jawbone. The abutment connects the crown to the post. These two parts are made of dental-grade titanium, which is one of the strongest metals in the world. Titanium is a common material used in the field of medicine. It binds well with human bone and resists deterioration. Once the jawbone fuses with the titanium posts, your dental implants will stay in place.

​​​​​​​Dental implants are more durable than natural teeth. Here at Dr. Sam’s Premier Dentistry, we are ready to help you get and maintain high-quality dental implants. You are welcome to visit our office in Sherman, Texas for a one-on-one consultation. Please call us at (903) 708-6400 if you want to schedule an appointment or ask questions about our dental implant procedure.