Dental implants are a common and effective method to replace missing teeth. But like any other dental procedure, they require proper care and maintenance to ensure they last many years. Read on to learn the essential steps to care for your dental implants.

Cleaning Your Dental Implants

One of the most vital steps in caring for your dental implants is keeping them clean. It includes regular brushing, flossing, and visiting your dentist for professional cleanings. Brushing your dental implants should happen at least twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush and nonabrasive toothpaste. It is vital to clean around the implant, as plaque and bacteria can accumulate in the area and cause infections.

Flossing is crucial for maintaining the health of your dental implants. But as traditional floss can be difficult to use around the implant, it is best to use a unique flossing tool, such as a floss threader. It will help clean the area effectively.

It is important to schedule regular professional cleanings with your dentist. These cleanings will help remove any plaque or tartar that has accumulated around the implant. They will also allow your dentist to check for any potential problems.

Eating With Dental Implants

Eating with dental implants is like eating with natural teeth. However, there are a few things to keep in mind. Avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods that could damage the implant or the surrounding teeth. It is important to chew on both sides of your mouth to evenly distribute the force on your dental implants and to avoid biting into hard foods with your implant-supported teeth.

Avoiding Smoking and Drinking

Smoking and heavy drinking can harm your dental implants. The nicotine in cigarette smoke can cause the implant to loosen and fail. Alcohol can cause dry mouth, increasing the risk of infection and implant failure. It is best to avoid smoking and heavy drinking altogether if you want to ensure the longevity of your dental implants.

Be Careful With Oral Appliances

Many use oral appliances such as night guards or sports mouth guards to protect their teeth while sleeping or playing sports. However, these appliances can put extra pressure on dental implants, causing them to become loose or damaged. Consult your dentist before using any oral appliances to ensure they will not harm your dental implants.

Recognizing the Signs of Implant Failure

Dental implant failure can occur due to infection, inflammation, or lack of proper care. It is vital to recognize the signs of implant failure early on. Doing so can ensure treatment before it becomes a more severe problem. Some implant failure signs include pain, swelling, or redness around the implant, difficulty eating or speaking, and loose or shifting implant.

Follow-up Care

Following the initial placement of your dental implants, it is essential to schedule regular follow-up appointments with your dentist. These appointments will allow your dentist to monitor your dental implants to make necessary adjustments for proper functioning. During these appointments, your dentist will also check for potential problems, such as infection or inflammation. They will make sure that the implant gets integrated with your jawbone.

For more about dental implants, visit Dr. Sam’s Premier Dentistry at our Sherman, Texas, office. Call 903-708-6400 to schedule an appointment today.