Dental implants are successful in the vast majority of cases. However, they do fail in rare instances. How can you make sure that does not happen to you? You can greatly reduce your risk of complications by adhering to some good habits that will protect your new teeth and the surrounding tissues from harm. What exactly do you need to do? Here are some helpful tips:
Maintain Thorough Oral Hygiene
One of the most important steps to promote the success of your dental implants is a thorough oral hygiene routine. This can reduce the number of harmful bacteria in your mouth that might lead to a dangerous infection.
Brush your teeth at least twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and a non-abrasive toothpaste. Ensure you clean all surfaces of your teeth (including the backs and along the gumline). You should also clean around your implants with floss, a water flosser, or an interdental brush.
Visit Your Dentist Regularly
Regular dental checkups are essential to monitor the health of your dental implants and surrounding tissues. Schedule visits with your dentist at least every six months, or more frequently if recommended. During these visits, your dentist will assess the integrity of your implants and strive to identify potential problems before they become serious.
Professional cleanings are also important because a hygienist can remove plaque and tarter that you might miss during your at-home oral hygiene routine. They can also remove your restorations and thoroughly clean around your implant abutments.
Adopt a Healthy Lifestyle
Your overall health plays a significant role in the success of your dental implants. Focus on eating a balanced diet rich in nutrients that support oral and bone health, such as calcium, vitamin D, and omega-3 fatty acids. Stay well-hydrated to promote saliva production, which helps protect against harmful bacteria.
Additionally, prioritize regular physical activity, as it supports your body’s ability to heal and maintain strong bones. You should also carefully manage chronic conditions such as diabetes, as uncontrolled blood sugar levels hinder healing and increase the risk of dental implant complications.
Protect Your Implants from Damage
Preventing physical damage to your implants is vital. Here is how you can do so:
- Avoid using your teeth to open packages or bite into hard objects such as ice, hard candies, or pens.
- If you grind your teeth or clench your jaw, talk to your dentist about a custom nightguard to prevent excessive pressure on your implants.
- For individuals who participate in contact sports, wearing a mouthguard can shield your implants and natural teeth from potential injury.
Quit Harmful Habits
Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption are detrimental to the success of dental implants. Smoking impairs blood flow to the gums, which slows healing and increases the risk of implant failure. Excessive alcohol consumption interferes with your body’s ability to heal and fight infection. If necessary, seek professional help to quit bad habits so you can enjoy better long-term oral and overall health.
Dental implant failure is rare, and it is even rarer in people who have good habits! Talk to your dentist to learn how your prosthetic teeth can thrive throughout your lifetime.
Meet the Practice
At United Dental Centers of Hammond, our team is proud to provide comprehensive dental implant services in a welcoming environment. We even have an on-staff specialist who handles the implant placement surgery. If you have questions about this form of tooth replacement or how to make it a success, contact our office at 219-933-4900.