How to Keep Your Dental Implants for Longer

If you have invested in dental implants to replace your lost teeth, you should plan for proper maintenance. Under ideal circumstances, dental implants will last for a long time because the artificial titanium root integrates with the underlying jawbone. However, the lifespan of the implants can be compromised by improper care. Therefore, if you would like to secure your dental health and avoid additional expenses, you must protect these units. Here are some core tips for preventing premature dental implant failure.

Allow Time for Healing

If your dental implants are new, you should allow enough time for healing. In simple terms, it is crucial not to expose them to stress which could compromise complete recovery. For instance, one of the common mistakes is chewing on hard and crunchy foods prematurely. Remember, dental implants will allow you to enjoy full dental functionality, but some time is needed for the implants to be stable. Therefore, choose soft foods in the beginning before working your way back to your regular diet.

Resume Good Oral Care

It is essential to have good oral practices after dental implant placement. Your dentist will provide instructions on how to care for your teeth immediately after the procedure. Also, inquire about the time period required before resuming your normal dental care routine. Poor oral care will lead to tissue infection and inflammation and other complications could arise, leading to the premature failure of the implant. In general, proper dental care will involve brushing using a soft toothbrush with low abrasive toothpaste.

An angled brush will be more thorough in clearing dirt and debris from the abutments. You should also floss on a regular basis to prevent build-up of harmful substances in hard-to-reach areas. You can use special floss suited for sensitive teeth or a suitable interdental brush. In addition, acquire some antimicrobial mouthwash. The growth of bacteria around the implants will leave you more vulnerable to infections. The mouthwash will reduce biofilms and prevent plaque build-up.

Keep Dental Appointments

Proper and regular check-up is crucial for the longevity of your implants. Therefore, you must not miss the follow-up appointments set up after the initial implantation. The dentist will check the condition of the implants and determine whether there is loosening. If a problem is detected early it can be resolved early, preventing the loss of the implant. Regular visits are also crucial for protecting the rest of the teeth. Normal check-ups could eliminate the need for more implants in the future.