Dental implants have become a popular and widely accepted option for replacing missing teeth. Compared to dentures and bridges, these implants have more permanence and feel more natural. However, like all other things, dental implants require proper care if they are to be long-lasting. The following are some tips for caring for your dental implant to ensure that it will last for many years.
How Dental Implants Work
They are basically titanium posts surgically fixed into the jawbone. These form the artificial tooth root and therefore provide a very stable base for replacement teeth. Dental implants are multi-step procedures that include consultation, surgery, and healing. After the implant fuses with the bone, good care must be taken to keep it functioning and looking great.
Dental Implant Care: Some Tips
Practice Good Oral Hygiene
Good oral hygiene is important for the health of your dental implants. Brush your teeth at least twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush. Be sure to clean around the implant area gently to remove plaque and food particles. Floss daily to keep the gum line clean and prevent gum disease. Consider using an antibacterial mouthwash to further reduce bacteria in your mouth.
Regular Dental Check-Ups
Regular dental check-ups are essential for monitoring the health of your dental implants. Schedule visits with your dentist at least twice a year. During these appointments, your dentist will examine your implants, check for any signs of infection, and perform professional cleanings. Early detection of potential issues can help prevent complications down the road.
Avoid Hard and Sticky Foods
Although dental implants are designed to last, they should not be subjected to hard and sticky foods since such types of foods can damage them. Hard candies, ice, and sticky caramels place an undue amount of stress on your implants. You can consume soft foods instead, as they are more flexible during chewing. Should you have some hard foods, avoid biting down hard directly on the implant.
Avoid Smoking
Smoking can reduce the success of your dental implant a long way. This is because smoking decreases blood flow to the gums, reducing healing capability and increasing infection risks. Quit Smoking if you want the best for your oral health and a long life of implants. Your dentist can refer you to resources to help quit smoking.
Look After Your Overall Health
In overall health, everything might play a significant difference in the successful completion of a dental implant procedure. Diseases like diabetes, when not correctly addressed, might cause one or another barrier by creating late healing problems. Such should, in prior discussion with the physician, be maintained if possible, beforehand. Healthy lifestyle steps that you lead can also impact and hence be controlled if possible, earlier.
Do Not Grind Your Teeth
Grinding your teeth will put extra stress on your dental implants. It is called bruxism, and it is one of the reasons why the implants will fail. In case you think that you grind your teeth, do tell your dentist. Your dentist might advise a night-guard that will keep your implants from more risks during sleep.
Proper care of dental implants is crucial for their long-term success. Continue to practice good oral hygiene, see your dentist regularly, and make healthy lifestyle choices, and you will be able to enjoy your dental implants for many years. If you have any other questions about how to take care of your dental implants, please contact Dentistry on Sinclair.
At Dentistry on Sinclair, we pride ourselves on personal care and strive to assist you in attaining a healthy, beautiful smile. Please contact us today to learn more about our services and dental implants and how we can help you along your path to optimal oral health.
