Dental implants are a great way to replace missing teeth. They look and feel as natural as your own teeth. Additionally, they help you chew and smile with confidence. However, just like all your natural teeth, your dental implants require proper care to stay healthy and work properly.
If you do not take care of them, you may encounter issues such as infections or damage to your gums and jawbone. Make sure to visit a dental hygienist near you for regular check-ups and professional care to keep your implants in good condition.
Why You Should Maintain Your Dental Implants?
Taking care of your dental implants is important for many reasons. Implants are made to last a long time, but only if you keep them clean and healthy. Here’s why proper care matters:
- Preventing Infections: If bacteria build up around the implant, it can cause an infection called peri-implantitis. This condition can harm your gums and bones, leading to implant failure.
- Protecting Your Gums: Healthy gums are essential for keeping the implant stable. Poor care can lead to gum disease, which will weaken the support for the implant.
- Avoiding Bone Loss: Bone tissue around the implant can shrink if there’s an infection or poor hygiene. This can make the implant loose.
- Saving Money: Dental implants are an investment. By taking care of them, you avoid costly repairs or replacements in the future.
- Keeping Your Smile Bright: Clean implants look better and make your smile more attractive.
Proper maintenance ensures that your implants stay strong and your mouth remains healthy.
How to Take Care of Your Dental Implants?
Taking care of dental implants is much like taking care of your natural teeth, except that it demands a little more care. Follow these tips for keeping your implants in good shape:
1. Brush Your Teeth at Least Twice a Day
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to clean your teeth and implants gently.
- Brush all sides of the implant crown (the part that looks like a tooth).
- Consider utilizing toothpaste that is developed for sensitive teeth so that the surface of the implant is not scratched
2. Floss Daily
- Flossing removes food particles and plaque from between teeth and around implants.
- Use special implant-friendly floss or a floss threader for better cleaning.
3. Use an Antibacterial Mouthwash
- Rinse with an alcohol-free antibacterial mouthwash to reduce bacteria in your mouth.
- Use of antibacterial mouthwash helps to prevent infections and keeps your gums healthy.
4. Avoid Hard Foods
- Avoid intake of hard or sticky foods like ice, popcorn kernels, hard candies, and more.
- These can affect the implant crown or put too much pressure on the implant.
5. Quit Smoking
- Smoking slows down healing and increases the risk of gum disease and implant failure.
- If you smoke, talk to your professional about ways to quit.
6. Visit Your Dental Hygienist Regularly
- Schedule check-ups every six months or as recommended by your professional.
- Professional cleanings help to remove plaque and tartar where regular brushing can’t reach.
- Your dental hygienist will also check the health of your gums and the stability of the implant.
What Happens If You Don’t Care for Your Implants?
Ignoring implant care in Edmonton can lead to serious oral problems. Here are some potential issues:
- Peri-Implantitis: This infection causes gum swelling, bleeding, and bone loss around the implant. If not treated, the implant may fail.
- Gum Disease: Poor hygiene can lead to gingivitis (mild gum disease) or periodontitis (severe gum disease). Both conditions weaken the gums and jawbone.
- Implant Failure: Without proper care, the implant can become loose and fall out.
- Bad Breath: Plaque and food particles around the implant can cause unpleasant odours.
- Pain and Discomfort: Poor care may result in sore gums or difficulty chewing.
Tips for Long-Term Success
Here are some additional tips to keep your dental implants healthy for years to come:
- Invest in the Right Tools: Electric toothbrushes, interdental brushes, and water flossers can make cleaning easier and more effective.
- Stick to a Routine: Make brushing and flossing a daily habit. Consistency is key.
- Eat a Balanced Diet: Foods rich in vitamins and minerals help keep your gums and bones strong.
- Stay Hydrated: Drinking water helps clean away bacteria and keeps your mouth clean.
- Ask for Help: If you’re unsure about your cleaning routine, ask your dental hygienist for a recommendation.
Protect Your Smile With Proper Implant Care Today!
Floss Bosses is dedicated to keeping patient smiles healthy and attractive. We focus on gentle, professional care to ensure your implants last and your smile stays bright. Regular check-ups and cleanings by a dental hygienist in Edmonton are key to preventing issues and maintaining your oral health.
Visit Floss Bosses today! Let us help you protect your smile and keep your dental implants in good shape!
