Having your teeth replaced with dental implants in Lawrenceville is a joyous time. It means you can lead a normal life again and experience a renewed sense of confidence. For the placement to ultimately be successful, though, requires some simple yet important steps be followed after the procedure has been completed. Read on to learn about 5 essential ways to maintain your new implants!
Tip #1 – Avoid Tobacco Usage
Whether you smoke or chew tobacco, the hazardous toxins that are released in the mouth can cause the following problems to arise:
- Dryer mouth that invites the growth of bacteria
- A condition called dry socket that causes the blood clot to dislodge
- Greater susceptibility to the development of gum disease and shrinkage that could compromise the implant
The best way to prevent situations like the above from occurring is to avoid the usage of any form of tobacco.
Tip #2 – Seek Treatment for Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)
Bruxism is a condition that can sometimes be brought on by increased stress or poor occlusion (bite). The uneven distribution of the force from your jaw can then cause a dental implant to fail prematurely.
If you suffer from this condition, you shouldn’t hesitate to bring it to your dentist’s attention. One of the possible remedies is to be fitted with a custom mouthguard to be worn while you sleep to protect you from unconsciously grinding your teeth.
Tip #3 – Maintain Normal Oral Hygiene Habits
One of the benefits of having dental implants placed is they allow you to maintain all of your usual oral hygiene habits. So you should be sure to brush your teeth at least two times a day.
It’s equally important to use dental floss to remove the remaining debris and bacteria that your toothbrush can’t address. The combination of these two methods of cleaning your teeth will help to keep your gums healthy.
Tip #4 – Choose Healthier Foods
Your food selection will factor greatly into the longevity of your dental implants. Snack items and desserts that are high in sugar and other processed ingredients, can eventually cause the accelerated growth of bacteria, which can then contribute to poor gum health.
An alternative is to eat whole foods like fruits and vegetables. Because the sugars (starches) they contain are naturally-occurring, they have less of a negative impact on your oral health.
Tip #5 – Visit Your Dentist
It’s recommended that you visit your dentist every six months for preventive care. In doing so, you’ll ensure longer-lasting dental implants. Here are some of the reasons these appointments are so important:
- You’ll receive a thorough cleaning.
- Your teeth and gums will be examined.
- If there are any issues with your implants, they can be identified early so the most effective and least invasive method of restoration can be used.
By applying the above principles, you can rest assured that your beautiful new smile and dental implants will last for years to come!
About the Author
Dr. Bruce E. Carter is a graduate of the University of Florida College of Dentistry, and for over 30 years, he’s been providing top-notch dental care. A life-long learner, he has received postgraduate training from the Pankey Institute, Dr. Arun Garg’s Implant Seminars, and he maintains membership with the International Dental Implant Association. Dr. Carter places dental implants at Transforming Smiles, and he can be reached for more information through his website.