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How To Care For Your Dental Implants?

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By Vitality Dental - Dentist Plano | April 20, 2023

Dental implants are an excellent option for people who lost one or more teeth. Unlike dentures, dental implants are permanent and look like natural teeth. However, they require proper care and maintenance to ensure longevity. In this blog post, we will discuss how to care for your dental implants.

Why Do You Need Dental Implants?

Dental implants are a game-changer for those who have suffered from tooth loss. Not only do they improve your appearance, but dental implants also provide numerous benefits in terms of functionality and oral health benefits. Unlike traditional dentures or bridges that rest on the gums, dental implants fuse with the jawbone to create a stable foundation for artificial teeth. This means you can eat all your favorite foods without any discomfort or fear of slipping dentures. Moreover, dental implants stimulate natural bone growth and prevent further deterioration of the jawbone – something that often happens after tooth loss if left untreated. So, if you want to restore your smile’s beauty and regain optimal oral function while preventing future complications, then dental implants could be an excellent option for you!

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Benefits Of Dental Implants

Dental implants are a popular and effective way to restore missing teeth. Here are some benefits of dental implants that you should know:

  • They look and feel like natural teeth, giving you a confident smile
  • Dental implants can last for many years with proper care and maintenance
  • Unlike dentures, they won’t slip or shift in your mouth, making eating and speaking easier
  • With dental implants, there’s no need to alter adjacent healthy teeth as with traditional bridges
  • Implants stimulate the jawbone, preventing bone loss that can occur when teeth are missing
  • You can enjoy all your favorite foods without worrying about damaging or dislodging your implant.

Overall, dental implants offer a long-lasting solution for missing teeth that provides comfort and functionality while improving overall oral health.

Dental Implant Aftercare Tips 

Brush And Floss Regularly

Just like natural teeth, dental implants require regular brushing and flossing to remove plaque and prevent gum disease. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to brush your teeth twice a day. Floss at least once a day, using floss designed for dental implants to avoid damaging the implant or surrounding gum tissue.

Visit Your Dentist Regularly

Regular dental check-ups are essential for maintaining healthy dental implants. Your dentist will examine your implant and surrounding gum tissue to ensure that everything is healthy and functioning correctly. They may also recommend professional cleaning to remove any plaque or tartar buildup.

Avoid Chewing On Hard Or Sticky Foods

Dental implants are very durable, but they can still be damaged by excessive force. Avoid chewing on hard or sticky foods like ice, hard candy, or caramel, which can damage the implant or surrounding gum tissue.

Quit Smoking

Smoking is a significant risk factor for implant failure. Smoking can reduce blood flow to the implant site, slowing down the healing process and increasing the risk of infection. If you smoke, quitting is essential for maintaining the health and longevity of your dental implants.

Wear A Mouthguard During Sports

If you participate in sports or other activities that put your teeth at risk of injury, wear a mouthguard to protect your dental implants. Mouthguards can absorb the impact of blows to the mouth, reducing the risk of damage to the implant or surrounding teeth.

Follow Post-Surgical Instructions

If you have recently had dental implant surgery, follow your dentist’s post-surgical instructions carefully. This may include taking pain medication, avoiding certain foods, and using a special mouth rinse. Follow these instructions closely to ensure that your implant heals correctly and remains healthy.

Source: Dental House MI

In conclusion, caring for your dental implants is essential for maintaining their longevity and ensuring that they look and function like natural teeth. Brush and floss regularly, visit your dentist regularly, avoid chewing on hard or sticky foods, quit smoking, wear a mouthguard during sports, and follow post-surgical instructions to keep your dental implants healthy and functioning correctly.