Getting the Most Out of Your Dental Implants

Dental implants are the most realistic way to replace missing teeth. They fuse to the jawbone and function like natural teeth, preventing complications from missing teeth, such as shifting surrounding teeth, deteriorating bone tissue, and difficulty chewing.

However, they require proper care to stay healthy. Here are some tips to get the most out of your dental implants:

Visit Your Dentist Regularly

Just because you have dental implants doesn’t mean you can slack off on your oral health. You should brush and floss regularly to keep the surrounding tissue healthy and to prevent peri-implantitis, an infection that can cause bone loss around the implant site.

You should also use sensitive cleaning items, as overly abrasive products can cause discomfort. In addition, it’s a good idea to give toothpaste and mouthwash with intense flavors a miss, as they can lead to an unpleasant sensation inside your mouth.

Finally, it would help if you visited your dentist regularly for cleanings and checkups. Your dentist can help you maintain a healthy bite and ensure your dental implants Huntington are working correctly. They will also be able to spot any problems before they become severe and prevent them from spreading. By visiting your dentist regularly, you can enjoy the best possible results from your implant treatment. You can find a trusted local dentist by asking friends and family for recommendations or checking online reviews.

Brush Daily

Just because you have dental implants does not mean that you can slack off on your oral hygiene routine. You should still brush your teeth and use mouthwash daily to promote optimal gum health. This prevents plaque build-up, which can lead to bacterial infections or even implant failure.

Choosing the right toothpaste and toothbrush for your implants is also important. Be sure to use a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste, and avoid baking soda, whitening, or tartar-control formulas, as they can damage or scratch the ceramic surface of your dental implants.

It would help if you also flossed daily to remove food debris and bacteria from the implant site. A floss threader or interdental brush can help you reach hard-to-reach areas between your teeth and implants without irritating the surgical area. It would help if you also rinsed your mouth with an antiseptic mouthwash to kill bacteria and promote healing. Finally, visit your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and exams.

Floss Daily

Flossing is an essential part of maintaining good oral hygiene. It removes bacteria that can build up between teeth and underneath the gum line, preventing tooth decay and gum disease. It also has several health benefits, including helping prevent atherosclerosis (clogged arteries).

For many people, flossing can be challenging to get into the habit. It is essential to make it a daily routine so it’s not a chore. Some people find it easier to use a flossing tool like a Waterpik, which takes some of the grunt work out of the process.

First, grab about 18 inches of floss and wind most of it around your middle finger. Unwind a clean section of floss on the other finger and gently curve it between each tooth, ensuring it gets beneath the gum line. Repeat this for all of the teeth in your mouth. After flossing, rinse your mouth with antiseptic mouthwash to remove any remaining food debris and bacteria.

Avoid Hard Foods

The surgical site of dental implants can become irritated or even damaged by hard, crunchy, or sticky foods. You should avoid these foods during the initial healing period to protect your implants and promote a successful recovery.

Nuts, chips, and popcorn can put too much pressure on the implant and disrupt the healing process. Sticky and chewy foods like gum, taffy, and caramel can get stuck around the implant and lead to infection. Acidic and spicy foods can irritate the implant site, leading to pain and discomfort.

Eating a balanced diet is essential for your overall health and should include plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains. Limiting sugary drinks, especially those with a high acid content, is also essential to keep your dental implant healthy. Coffee and tea can stain dental implants like natural teeth, so avoiding these beverages is best. If you choose to enjoy these drinks, brush immediately afterward to decrease the chances of staining.