Dental implants can help you restore the condition and health of your smile. One of the major advantages of dental implants is that they can help to facilitate the normal pressure of a natural tooth on the jawbone, which helps to prevent loss of bone mass. Once you have had dental implants installed, it is essential to follow the appropriate steps to keep them in good shape. Here are a few tips for how to care for your dental implants!
Only Use a Soft-Bristled Toothbrush
It is important to ensure that you are brushing your teeth carefully when you have dental implants. However, whenever you brush, it is important to only use a soft-bristled toothbrush. This tends to be a good idea, even if you don’t have dental implants, because it will reduce the amount of wear that occurs to your teeth. Using a soft-bristled toothbrush can help to prevent scratching and other damage from occurring to your dental implants.
Brush Twice Every Day
When you have dental implants, you can often get by with providing the same amount of care that you would for your natural teeth. However, it is essential to ensure that you take good care of your teeth. This means that it is necessary to brush at least twice a day for two minutes at a time. You should also floss your teeth thoroughly every day.
Consider Using a Water Flosser
A water flosser is a valuable addition to your oral hygiene routine. When you have dental implants, it will be important to ensure that you care for your teeth. A water flosser can help you to dislodge harmful particles from your teeth, which ultimately aids in keeping your teeth cleaner and in much better condition.
Crown and Bridge Floss
Another great option for flossing your teeth is with the use of crown and bridge floss. This type of floss has been designed specifically for use with individuals that have crowns or bridges. By using this type of floss, you will be able to more effectively clean around the edges of your implants.
Minimize Abrasive Ingredient Use
When you have dental implants, it is important to pay attention to the ingredients that are present in the products you use. This is especially true when it comes to the toothpaste that you use. Choose toothpaste that is free of baking soda or stain removal products that tend to be abrasive. Abrasive ingredients can cause scratches and damage to dental implants.
Soak Dentures Overnight
Dentures should be cared for slightly differently than single dental implants. When you have dentures, you will want to ensure that you soak them in the appropriate solution overnight. It is not soak them in hot water, as this can cause warping. Ensure that you rinse your dentures thoroughly before you put them back in your mouth after you have soaked them.
Inspect Implants Regularly
For both dentures and implants alike, it is important to ensure that you inspect them regularly. This will help you to identify damage in the early stages. In most scenarios, identifying damage early on will make it far easier to have them repaired effectively.
Visit your Dentist on a Regular Basis
Regular dental visits are essential after you have had dental implants installed. This will help you to ensure that your teeth receive the cleanings and examinations that keep them in good shape.
Avoid Chewing on Hard Items
Chewing on hard items is an incredibly common culprit behind significant damage to the teeth. Avoid chewing on these hard items when you have dental implants, as this can lead to damage. Try to stop chewing on ice, hard candy, pencils, or other hard objects. It is also important to ensure that you use your teeth only for chewing, not for opening packages or performing other functions.
Stop Smoking or Drinking
Smoking and drinking are both incredibly bad for your teeth. When you stop using these substances, you will be able to provide better oral health. It is especially important to refrain from smoking or drinking during the first 6 months after receiving the implant. This will help to prevent any problems from occurring during the healing process.
Dental implants are a great way to restore the condition of your teeth and prevent damage from spreading to other areas of your smile. At Bismarck Advanced Dental Implants, we offer an array of implant-related services to meet your specific needs. To learn more about the ideal ways to care for your dental implants, contact us at Bismarck Advanced Dental Implants today!