Proper Dental Implant Care and Maintenance

Dental implants are used in people who are missing one tooth or many teeth. It works basically like the natural root of the teeth, only that it’s made out of titanium. It is surgically placed in the jawbone, allowing dentists to mount either the replacement teeth or bridge onto the said area. The main advantage of implants is comfort and durability, thanks to the quality of the material it is made of and how the surgical procedure all but ensures that the implant doesn’t come loose, unlike dentures. Also, unlike dental bridges, dental implants do not need to use the adjacent teeth as anchors, making them better for oral health in general.

Tips for Proper Oral Care with Implants

To be a candidate for dental implants the patient must have healthy gums and the necessary bone to support the implant. The latter is especially important, as without it, it would be near impossible to place the implants unless the patient opts for a bone graft procedure or a sinus lift.

Given the procedure’s high success rate, dental implants are considered the ideal procedure for those who are looking for a more durable means of replacing lost teeth.

Durable as implants are, however, they will not last as long if not properly taken care of and these few steps will help make sure that your implants lasts for a long time.

  • Establish a proper oral care routine at home. The ideal home oral care routine includes brushing teeth twice a day for two minutes each session and flossing AT LEAST once. If possible, try to rinse with a mouthwash as well, to further rid your mouth of plaque and bacteria. It is also recommended for patients with implants to use brushes with bristles thin enough to be able to slide in between the teeth. This feature allows these toothbrushes to clean the nooks and crevices around the implant, leading to a more thorough clean.
  • Abstain from alcohol and tobacco. Regular smoking can lead to the weakening of the bone structure and may also increase the chances of implant failure. That and the wide slew of health risks that come with smoking is more than reason enough to stay away from it. The same can be said for regular or daily consumption of alcoholic beverages.
  • Avoid chewing on hard food. Most people have a habit of chewing on hard food items, such as candy, ice, bottle caps and others. Those with dental implants should avoid doing so as it can lead to the premature breaking of the crown and may even damage the implant itself.
  • Visit the dentist regularly. Regular dental exams and professional cleaning every three to six months can help make sure that your teeth and gums, as well as the implant, are in good condition.

Just how long your implant lasts depend a lot on how well you’re able to take care of your oral health. Follow the tips above and you’re sure to enjoy a healthy, cleaner mouth and an implant that lasts for years, if not decades!

If you’re looking to replace your missing tooth with a dental implant, contact Dr. Ted Haines, DDS in Snohomish, WA at 360-568-8577 or visit www.tedhainesdds.com for additional information.

Dr. Ted Haines proudly accepts patients from Monroe, Lake Stevens, Everett, Mill Creek, Woodville, and surrounding areas.