Did you know that 31.6% of people between the ages of 20-44 have untreated dental caries? Are you either considering dental implants or have them and want to know how to take care of them?
Dental Implant Care 101: Essential Tips for Looking After Your Implants
This article explores proper dental implant care to keep them as good as new. Read on to explore these top tips you won’t want to miss, and say hello to a healthy smile today!
Prevent Implant Failure
You can learn more about dental implant infections and how to avoid them by following what your dentist says. Since an implant means no natural tooth structure, you can’t develop a cavity or face decay.
The longevity of your dental implant can face consequences if you have a periodontal infection or inflammation. Another name for a periodontal infection is what’s known as peri-implantitis.
This is when the inflammatory process affects the hard and soft tissues surrounding your dental implants. Dental implants can face the same bacteria that disrupt natural teeth as well.
These bacteria can develop into calculus. Calculus is a deposit that can destroy the bone and gum tissue around the implant. When it turns into calculus, flossing and brushing can’t remove it. At this point, only a dental hygienist can remove it.
This can cause your dental implant to fail. It’s essential to do plaque removal at home to avoid this.
How to Care for Dental Implants
You’ll want to use a low-abrasive toothpaste if you have single implants. Ensure that you use proper brushing techniques around and underneath your implant.
Use floss daily to get to the food your toothbrush can’t reach. You can also consider using an oral irrigator as well.
Avoid Abrasive Items
Use sensitive cleaning products when it comes to mouthwash and toothpaste. If you use products that are too abrasive, it can lead to discomfort. Avoid products that have intense flavors.
Proper Flossing
Many don’t floss daily, and if you have implants, it’s even more important to floss. Plaque can stack up around your implants and cause oral hygiene problems.
There are different types of flosses out there that are made for those with implants. If you have trouble remembering, then set a reminder and make it part of your day to floss.
Avoid Hard Foods
Certain foods, such as hard and sticky items, can cause damage to your implants. Some foods to avoid are apples, steak, potato chips, dried fruit, etc.
Brush
When you brush your implants, use a 45-degree angle at the gum line in a circular motion. Don’t brush side to side since it won’t eliminate all of the plaque.
You’ll want to brush at least twice a day. The recommendation is to brush after every meal.
Opt for an electric toothbrush instead of a manual since they can get to bacteria easier than a manual toothbrush can. Choose a soft bristle option, whether a manual or electric toothbrush.
Alcohol-Free Mouthwash
Use alcohol-free mouthwash. Mouthwash containing alcohol can lead to a dry mouth and kill good bacteria.
Don’t Smoke
Not smoking is essential within the first six months after an implant. Smoking can damage your gums and cause problems for your implants. Avoid alcohol during the first six months since it can slow recovery.
Oral Irrigation
Instead of flossing, you can look into oral irrigation. It’ll eliminate any bacteria or food particles that your toothbrush misses.
Dental Implant Recovery
After you receive your dental implant, you won’t need to worry about taking off work. When you receive your implant, it’s a good idea to ask someone in advance to drive you home after the procedure.
While not everyone needs pain relief after the procedure, you might, so it’s a good idea to have over-the-counter pain medication handy. During the procedure, many dentists use local anesthesia. They can also offer you sedation options.
After the procedure, don’t touch the implant site with your fingers or tongue. Avoid rinsing your mouth as well.
Don’t smoke, use straws, suck, or spit right after the procedure. This can cause the healing process to slow down.
Avoid Hot Foods
Avoid spicy foods and hot liquid after you receive your implants. Once a few days pass, you can return to your regular eating habits. Avoid hard foods until your implant is healed as well.
Reduce Swelling
If you notice any pain, you can take an over-the-counter pain reliever. It can also help with the reduction of any swelling you experience.
You can also check with your doctor about prescription pain medication as well. Apply ice to any swelling the first day to help reduce it.
If you need to take antibiotics after the procedure, ensure you complete the entire dose according to this dependable dentist in fort lauderdale. This will help you reduce the risk of an implant failing and decrease the chance of an infection.
How to Clean Overdentures?
Opt for a denture brush if you have overdentures. You’ll want to brush their underside at least once a day.
Many of them come with two heads. There’s a single-tuft head with tapered bristles for getting to the hard-to-reach areas. The soft-bristled flat head is suitable for reaching smooth surfaces.
Dental Implant Care Tips
Now that you’ve explored dental implant care for looking after your implants, you should have a better chance of having a safe and effective implant.
Would you like to read more parenting content? Check out our other articles today for everything from special needs to parenting.
