Caring For Your Dental Implants

Have you recently gotten dental implants? Congratulations, you have taken advantage of the most durable, natural-looking and long-lasting tooth replacement option available today. While you won’t have to think about messy denture creams, avoiding certain foods or special cleaning instructions, your new dental implants are still an investment that must be protected. The truth is, dental implants are designed to last a lifetime, but they are not invincible. Patients should follow these simple rules to maximize their dental implant investment:

Clean Your Teeth and Gums

It’s true that your dental implants are resistant to tooth decay. However, your remaining natural teeth and gums are still prone to damage if bacteria and plaque are allowed to build up. Maintain your brushing and flossing habits even when even when you have dental implants. If you slack off, you may find yourself facing gum disease, which can ruin your new smile investment completely.

Use Your Teeth For Chewing Only

Your dental implants have amazing strength and durability. However, you should resist the urge to use them as bottle openers. Stick to chewing food with your dental implants to prevent unwanted damage. Your new prosthetic tooth is attached to a titanium screw, which can chip or break off if you engage in bad habits.

Keep Stain-Causing Foods and Drinks to a Minimum

One of the benefits of your dental implant makeover is enjoying a whiter smile. In addition, dental implants are made of stain-resistant material. However, this appealing feature should not be confused with stain-proof! You still need to limit stain-causing foods and drinks. Coffee, soda, red wine and berries should be rinsed away with water or brushed off immediately so that your new smile doesn’t become dingy or yellowed.

Consider Using a Mouth Guard

Just as you would protect an expensive device or new equipment, you may also want to consider protecting your dental implant investment. A custom mouth guard can ensure that your new smile is protected while you engage in sports or other adventure activities that you love. In addition, patients who have a teeth grinding habit should purchase a mouth guard sooner rather than later if you want your dental implants to last a lifetime.

Visit your Dentist Regularly

Less natural teeth does not mean you can see your dentist less. Your oral care involves your entire mouth. Your dentist needs to check the health of your natural teeth as well as your gum health. You also still need a regular oral cancer screening each year.

Caring for your dental implants is very straightforward, as it involves no more and no less than caring for your natural teeth. Always tell your dentist if you are experiencing any discomfort surrounding your new dental implant. Your new smile should be rewarding and convenient for a lifetime.