If you decide to consider dental implants to replace a missing tooth, you are not alone. Dental implants are now a common treatment among adults. In addition to replacing a single tooth, they can be used to stabilize a denture for better comfort and function. The American Academy of Implant Dentistry estimates that about 3 million individuals have implants. This number continues to grow by about 500,000 annually.
To ensure that your implants will last a long time, you need to put effort and use the right oral care techniques to keep your teeth clean and free of harmful plaque and bacteria. Remember, improper dental care can result in infections in the tissues around the implant and result in peri-implantitis that might cause implant loss. Here are the top most important dental implants care tips.
1. Always use fluoride
Dental implants are strong and often resistant to diseases and cavities. Unfortunately, your natural teeth may not withstand the damage associated with unhealthy bacterial and tooth decay. To minimize the risk of losing more teeth due to dental diseases, it is recommended to use toothpaste with fluoride and rinse thoroughly.
Make sure that you brush your teeth at least twice every day. That means you should brush your teeth after every meal. Clean all the surfaces of your dental implants carefully just as you do with your natural teeth and gums.
You may also want to use an inter-toothbrush designed to clean around braces, bridges, and wide spaces effectively. Such a toothbrush will allow better maneuverability and probably help with post-surgical care and implant maintenance. Your dentist may also recommend the use of motorized toothbrushes, particularly if manual dexterity is becoming an issue.
2. Regular flossing
Dental implants also need regular flossing. Besides, your natural teeth and gums need the same attentive care you have always offered. Otherwise, you will be facing dental issues and in worst cases, dental implant failure. A recent report indicated that periodontal disease is the major cause of failure of dental implants. Thus, whether you have dental implants or not, oral care will always be an important part of your overall body health. Regular brushing and flossing should not be ignored.
3. Too much sugar can impact dental implants
The good news is that your dental implants won’t decay. The bad news is that sugar is the primary cause of plaque buildup. You already know that plaque is the leading cause of gum disease. If your gums are vulnerable, that means your dental implants are also vulnerable.
Most dentists argue that whatever you eat will always have an impact on your dental health. Starches, acids, and sugars are a touch on your gums and teeth. The solution isn’t entirely giving up on sweet substances. You need to be aware of what you consume and take the right steps to limit their impact.
4. Regular dental checkups
You have to see your dentist regularly if you want to keep your smile shiny. This is also important for your dental implant’s safety and success.