Dental implants replace missing teeth. They also restore your smile and enhance your oral health and overall well-being. However, proper maintenance is required to ensure their longevity and effectiveness.
Maintenance Practices That Promote Implant Longevity and Good Oral Health
The following ten implant maintenance requirements are essential to helping you prolong the lifespan of your implants and preserve your oral health.
Brush and Floss Diligently
Brush and floss twice a day (minimum) with a soft-bristled toothbrush for good oral hygiene. It is imperative to clean the area around the implant carefully, reaching all surfaces.
Use Non-Abrasive Dental Products
Choose non-abrasive toothpaste and mouthwash to avoid scratching the implant’s surface. Abrasive products can damage the implant’s protective coating, leading to complications.
Avoid Smoking and Excessive Alcohol Consumption
Tobacco and excessive alcohol consumption can compromise oral health and the success of dental implants. In addition, smoking and heavy drinking can impede healing, increase the risk of infections and inhibit proper implant integration with the jawbone.
Maintain a Balanced Diet
A healthy diet and good oral health go hand in hand. Consume various nutrient-rich foods, including fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and dairy products. Avoid excessive sugar consumption, which contributes to dental decay and gum disease.
Protect Implants During Physical Activities
Wear a mouthguard when partaking in contact sports or activities that could impact your mouth. A mouthguard can provide extra protection for your dental implants, preventing accidental damage.
Be Cautious with Hard or Sticky Foods
Avoid biting into hard foods (ice cubes, for example) or using your implants to open packages. Additionally, sticky foods like caramel or chewing gum can dislodge crowns or bridges attached to the implants.
Treat Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)
If you clench or grind your teeth, use a nightguard. Teeth grinding can exert excessive force on the implants, leading to implant failure or complications. Dentistry by Design can provide customized nightguards to protect your dental implants.
Address Oral Health Issues Promptly
A dental session is urgent if you experience discomfort, swelling or changes around your dental implants. Early intervention can prevent further complications and preserve the integrity of your implants.
Follow Post-Operative Instructions
After implant surgery, follow the provided post-operative instructions. Adhering carefully to these guidelines ensures proper healing and successful implant integration.
Attend Regular Dental Checkups
Visit a dentist biannually for a checkup and professional cleaning. Regular examinations allow the dentist to monitor the condition of your dental implants, detect any potential issues early and provide timely treatment if required.
Let Dentistry by Design Help with Your Implant Maintenance for Long-Term Success
Dentistry by Design offers comprehensive dental services, including implant maintenance, to ensure your oral health is well cared for. Contact us to arrange a consultation and receive personalized support for your implant maintenance needs.
