Dental implants have several advantages, including their ability to resemble the look and feel of natural teeth closely. Dentists attach them permanently, unlike removable options, and they can last a lifetime with proper maintenance. However, it is critical to maintain your implants’ functionality and longevity by giving them the appropriate care.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are artificial tooth roots surgically anchored into the jawbone. They provide a stable foundation for fixed or removable replacement teeth. The replacement teeth, which may take the form of a crown, bridge, or denture, use the implant as an anchor.
People with lost teeth due to trauma, illness, or other causes frequently and successfully use dental implants as a replacement.
How to Care for Dental Implants
Here are several suggestions for protecting and extending the life of your dental implants:
Avoid Hard Foods
Despite being made of sturdy materials, dental implants are not unbreakable. It is best to avoid hard foods as they may damage the implant or the replacement teeth. Foods like popcorn, hard candies, ice, and nuts fall under this category. If you must eat hard foods, chop them up finely and chew them on the side of your mouth opposite the implant.
Maintain Proper Oral Hygiene
Maintaining good oral hygiene is one of the most crucial things you can do to take care of your implants. This requires using fluoride toothpaste and soft-bristled brushes to brush your teeth twice a day, as well as daily flossing. Using interdental brushes or an oral irrigator, clean the area around the implantto eliminate any food particles or plaque.
Avoid Clenching and Grinding
Your dental implants could sustain damage if you grind or clench your teeth since that puts significant pressure on them. Ask your dentist about getting a night guard to protect your implants if you find yourself clenching or grinding your teeth.
Use Mouthwash With Caution
Alcohol, which some mouthwashes contain, can dry out your mouth, increasing the risk of infection and implant failure. Ask your dentist about substitutes if you are worried about the amount of alcohol in your mouthwash.
Avoid Tobacco Products
The health of your dental implants may suffer if you use tobacco. Smoking and chewing tobacco can lead to implant failure and receding gums that expose the implant. So, you must stop using tobacco products.
Schedule Routine Dental Appointments
Regular checkups and cleanings are crucial for your dental implants to last a long time. Your dentist will clean the area around the implant to remove plaque and tartar and look for any indications of implant failure. It is crucial to keep your scheduled dental appointments to ensure your implants remain healthy.
Maintain Your General Health
Your general health may influence the success of your dental implants. Working with your healthcare provider to manage a chronic condition like diabetes or heart disease is crucial. Your dental implants’ long-term success can increase as a result.
You can help ensure the long-term success of your implants by paying attention to these pointers. They may last for many years if you take good care of them.
For more about dental implants, call Progressive Dental & Associates at 708-980-0110 to reach our office in Matteson, Illinois.
