Dental implants are ideal for correcting a wide range of issues. They restore teeth that are damaged from injury or decay while improving their alignment for better function. Dental implants can also prevent the shifting of teeth that occurs when a tooth is missing. You need to take proper care of your dental implants in order to get long-lasting results. Knowing what to look out for will prevent any unwanted issues related to your dental implants. Having a good oral hygiene routine in place and consulting with your dentist will help you take care of your dental implants so that you can enjoy the benefits that they provide.
What to look out for
Proper care prevents your dental implants from failing. In extreme cases, your dentist may not be able to repair a failed implant. Poor oral hygiene increases the risk of damage to your implant. It contributes to the growth of unwanted bacteria, which can affect the implant by leading to inflammation of the gums. This leads to further loss of the bone around the dental implant. Over time, this can compromise the entire jaw and lead to even more damage.
Oral hygiene care for dental implants
Daily efforts to keep your teeth and gums healthy are essential in caring for your implants. When brushing and flossing, you need to pay particular attention to the area surrounding the implant. In order to remove as much debris as possible, angle the brush towards the gum line when brushing. Your dentist will also provide suggestions on how to take care of your dental implants. Be sure to follow the recommendations given to you and repeat those practices on a daily basis to ensure your teeth remain healthy and intact.
In some cases, specific tools might be recommended for getting the best results from your brushing and flossing routine. The time immediately after your procedure is especially critical. If you can’t use your regular toothbrush while the tissues are healing, use one with soft bristles that will clean the area with minimal irritation.
Professional maintenance for dental implants
Maintaining regular checkups with your dentist provides the ultimate protection of your dental implants. Your dentist determines how often you need to be re-evaluated, which will allow you to have your gums and teeth assessed and cleaned on a regular basis. If you’re having trouble reaching some areas around the dental implant, your dentist can provide a more comprehensive cleaning to ensure a healthy implant. A professional cleaning can be done using specialized tools that you won’t have access to at home, which makes it a valuable component in the life of your implant.
Dentists can use X-rays to observe the bone where the implant is placed. This protects you from any damage that may not be visible to the eye. Taking care of your dental implant(s) is a result of your own oral hygiene and maintaining follow-up appointments with your dentist. By preventing damage from poor dental care and neglect, you’ll be enhancing the life-span of your implant and getting the most out of your investment.