Dental implants provide dental patients with a reliable way to replace their missing teeth. Not only do these implants improve the appearance of your smile, but they also improve overall oral function. However, it is important that you provide these implants with adequate care. Without proper dental implant care, you may find yourself dealing with dental irritation.
At Bismarck Advanced Dental & Implants, we understand how crucial proper dental implant care is for the success of the prosthetic. If you have recently gotten dental implants and you want to ensure their success, keep reading to learn how to care for your new prosthetics.
What are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are sophisticated dental prosthetics designed to replace one or more missing teeth and restore your oral function and aesthetics. These implants consist of three main components—the implant fixture, abutment, and dental restoration. When installed properly, these implants are designed to mimic the natural structure and appearance of teeth.
The implant fixture, typically made of biocompatible titanium, is surgically inserted into your jawbone, where it fuses with the surrounding bone tissue. This fixture provides a stable foundation for the abutment, a connector piece that links the implant fixture to the dental restoration. The dental restoration, which may be a crown, bridge, or denture, is custom-made to match the shape, size, and color of natural teeth.
Unlike traditional tooth replacement options like dentures or bridges, dental implants are incredibly stable, durable, and functional. They allow patients to eat, speak, and smile without worrying about the prosthetic coming loose. They also help preserve bone density and prevent facial collapse, contributing to overall oral health and facial aesthetics.
Essential Tips for Dental Implant Care
If you choose to get them, it is incredibly important that you follow dental implant care tips closely to keep them looking their best. While dental implants cannot decay like your natural teeth, you are still susceptible to gum disease and irritation. Some of the most important dental implant care tips include:
Dental Implant Care Tip #1: Maintaining Excellent Oral Hygiene
Just like your natural teeth, your dental implants are susceptible to plaque buildup. If left unaddressed, this plaque buildup can lead to the development of gum disease and implant failure. If you choose to get dental implants, it is important that you adhere to a rigorous oral hygiene routine.
You should remember to brush your teeth and implants at least twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste. You should also floss daily to remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth and around the implants. Once you’re done, don’t forget to use an antimicrobial mouthwash to reduce bacteria and maintain oral freshness.
Dental Implant Care Tip #2: Choose Implant Friendly Products
When selecting oral care products, it is important that you opt for products that are specifically designed for dental implants. Using a non-abrasive toothpaste will help you avoid scratching the surface of your implants. You should also opt for a soft-bristled toothbrush to prevent damage to the implant and irritation of the surrounding tissue.
It might also be a good idea to invest in a water flosser or interdental brushes. These dental products make it easier to remove plaque from hard-to-reach areas, including the area surrounding your implant. By investing in dental implant-friendly dental products, you can trust that your implants will look their best for years to come.
Dental Implant Care Tip #3: Attend Regular Dental Check-Ups
While it is important to attend regular dental, it is especially important when you get dental implants. If you have dental implants, these dental exams become even more important. Visiting your dentist for routine cleanings and examinations every six months will give them an opportunity to catch problems before they become more significant.
At these appointments, you can also alert them to any problems you may be experiencing. When attending these regular dental check-ups, you may also undergo period X-rays to assess the integrity of the implants and surrounding bone structure. If you ever experience any problems with your implants, it is best to reach out to your dentist as soon as possible for support.
Dental Implant Care Tip #4: Avoid Harmful Habits
While caring for your dental implants isn’t especially difficult, there are certain habits that can compromise the success of the implants and increase the risk of complications. Your dentist will inform you of these lifestyle changes beforehand, but it is important that you keep up with them to protect your investment.
First, you should avoid smoking, as it can impair healing, increase the risk of infection, and contribute to implant failure. Second, you should refrain from chewing on hard objects such as ice, pens, or fingernails. These hard objects can damage the implant or cause it to become loose. Finally, steer clear of hard or sticky foods that could break or dislodge the implant.
Dental Implant Care Tip #5: Be Mindful of Clenching and Grinding
Just like clenching and grinding are harmful to your natural teeth, these behaviors may also be incredibly damaging to your dental implants. Whether you have a long history of clenching and grinding or this is a habit you just picked up, it is important that you discuss it with your dentist as soon as possible.
There are a few ways that your dentist can help you address your grinding and clenching. They may recommend that you wear a nightguard to protect your teeth from damage while you sleep. They may also recommend relaxation techniques to help you address underlying problems that may result in these behaviors.
Dental Implant Care from Bismarck Advanced Dental
Whether you’ve had dental implants for years or you are just beginning to make the transition, it is important to work with a reliable dental team like our team at Bismarck Advanced Dental & Implants. When you work with a reliable dental team, you can ensure proper dental implant care from the moment they are installed.
With years of experience helping patients across the Bismarck, ND, area achieve their brightest smile, we’re confident that we can do the same for you. From dental implants and veneers to dentures and more, we provide a variety of services to help you achieve the smile of your dreams. If you would like to learn more about dental implant care or schedule an appointment with our team, don’t hesitate to contact us today.