Have you recently joined thousands of other Americans living their best lives with dental implants? That’s fantastic! Dental implants are an effective and long-lasting solution for replacing missing teeth. But, if you really want to make the most of them, proper care is essential.
So, what are the best care practices, and what should you avoid? Continue reading to discover the important do’s and don’ts for caring for your dental implants.
The “Do’s” of Dental Implants
Here are the best practices for dental implant care:
Practice Good Oral Hygiene
Just like natural teeth, dental implants require regular brushing and flossing to remove plaque and prevent gum disease. Use a soft-bristle toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste to clean your implants gently.
Attend Regular Dental Checkups
Schedule regular dental checkups and cleanings with your dentist to monitor the health of your implants, gums, and jawbone. Your dentist can easily assess the integrity of your implants and identify any potential issues early on.
Maintain a Healthy Diet
Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains to support overall oral health and implant success. With the right nutrients, your oral health will stay in peak condition along with the rest of your body.
Protect Your Implants with Mouthguards
Wear a mouthguard during sports or activities that pose a risk of mouth trauma to prevent damage to your implants. Additionally, if you grind your teeth (bruxism), consider wearing a nightguard to protect your natural teeth and implants from damage.
The “Don’ts” of Dental Implants
Here are the biggest mistakes to avoid while taking care of your implants:
Avoid Smoking and Tobacco Products
Smoking and using tobacco can interfere with the healing process after implant placement and increase the risk of implant failure. Quitting smoking is a great idea for the long-term success of your dental implants and overall oral health.
Avoid Hard and Sticky Foods
Hard and sticky foods can cause excessive pressure on your implants and may cause damage or implant failure. Avoid chewing on ice, hard candies, and other tough foods that can strain your implants.
Don’t Use Your Teeth as Tools
Refrain from using your teeth to open bottles, tear packages, or bite your fingernails. This causes extreme wear or even damage like chips and fractures to your implants and natural teeth.
So, there you have it. By following these guidelines, you ensure the success of your implants and enjoy a healthy smile for years to come. If you have any questions or concerns about caring for your dental implants, don’t hesitate to consult with your dentist for personalized advice and guidance.
About the Author
Are you ready to get your dental implant? Do you just have questions about their care? Either way, Dr. Salari can provide the support you need. She earned her dental doctorate from the Université Libre de Bruxelles before undergoing extensive training in full mouth restorations at Université Lille 2. Since then, she has continued to develop her skills while showing other dentists the ropes. Call (703) 763-0800 to schedule a dental implant consultation at Nova Smile Dental – Dr. Marjan Salari, or visit the website to learn more.