If you have missing teeth, dental implants might be the best solution to restore your smile and prevent future dental issues. When a tooth is missing, the surrounding teeth can start to shift, causing alignment problems and other complications. Getting a dental implant as soon as possible will help close the gap and maintain the health and structure of your mouth.
Once you've had your dental implants placed, taking proper care of them is essential to ensure their long-term success. Here are seven simple tips to help you care for your dental implants:
1. Brush your teeth thoroughly and regularly
Brushing your teeth twice a day is crucial for keeping your dental implants in good condition. It’s important to use a soft-bristle toothbrush that is gentle on your gums and implants. Soft brushes can help you clean areas that are harder to reach, ensuring that food particles and plaque are effectively removed. Brushing for at least two minutes will also help eliminate bacteria that can build up around your dental implants. Make sure to clean every part of your mouth, including the area around the implant.
2. Quit smoking and drinking alcohol
If you smoke, it's important to stop, especially during the healing period after getting dental implants. Smoking reduces blood flow to the gums and surrounding tissue, which can slow down healing and increase the risk of implant failure. Alcohol can have a similar effect by reducing blood circulation, which might also lead to complications. For the best chances of a successful recovery, avoid smoking and limit alcohol consumption.
3. Use a non-abrasive toothpaste
To protect your dental implants, it’s essential to choose a non-abrasive toothpaste. Abrasive toothpastes can cause tiny scratches on the crown of your implant, which can weaken its structure over time. When choosing a toothpaste, check the Relative Dentin Abrasivity (RDA) rating. Look for a toothpaste with an RDA rating under 250, which indicates it is gentle enough for daily use. Also, avoid whitening toothpastes, as they tend to be more abrasive than regular toothpastes.
4. Floss regularly
Flossing is just as important as brushing when it comes to maintaining your dental implants. Flossing removes food particles and plaque from between your teeth, where a toothbrush might not reach. If these particles are left in place, they can lead to the growth of harmful bacteria that can damage your implant and surrounding gums. Be gentle when flossing to avoid irritating your gums, and make it a habit to floss at least once a day, preferably after meals.
5. Avoid hard and sticky foods
While dental implants are strong, you should still avoid eating hard or sticky foods that can damage them. Hard foods like nuts, hard candies, and ice can put too much pressure on your implants, while sticky foods like caramel or gummies can get stuck around them and be difficult to clean. Both can lead to damage or increase the risk of implant failure. It’s best to stick to softer foods that won’t strain your dental implants.
6. Visit your dentist regularly
Regular dental checkups are essential for the health of your dental implants. You should visit your dentist at least twice a year for cleanings and examinations. During these visits, your dentist will check the condition of your implants and address any potential issues before they become serious. Routine visits also allow for professional cleaning, which can help remove tartar buildup that you may not be able to eliminate at home.
7. Avoid damaging habits
Certain habits can damage your dental implants over time. Even though the crowns on your implants are durable, they are not indestructible. Avoid chewing on hard objects like pens, ice, or fingernails, as this can lead to cracks or chips. Additionally, if you grind your teeth at night, consider wearing a nightguard to protect your implants and natural teeth. By avoiding these damaging habits, you can extend the lifespan of your implants and keep them in great condition.