Many adults nowadays prefer dental implants for their missing teeth over removable dentures. They feel like real teeth and last quite long. But did you know that the lifespan of your implants depends a lot on how well you care for them? It can be a “make or break” deal for your implants. Here are some practical tips from our Houston dentist to make your implants last.
Brush Your Teeth Daily
You have to care for dental implants just as you do for your natural teeth. That means brushing twice a day is a must.
Look for a soft-bristled toothbrush that’s gentle on your teeth and gums. We also suggest using an interdental brush. These small brushes easily get in the space between your teeth and implant crowns.
Use the Right Toothpaste
Abrasive toothpastes can leave scratch marks on your restoration. Try avoiding them. Our Houston dentist may recommend a specific toothpaste that works best for keeping your teeth and implants clean.
Don’t Skip Flossing
Yes, flossing is just as important. Food bits easily get caught in the area around the implant, and flossing helps keep those areas clean. You can use a water flosser if you find traditional flossing difficult.
Keep Up With Routine Dental Visits
Dental implants also need routine cleanings like your natural teeth do. That’s because plaque can build up around the implant. If it is not cleaned, it may trigger inflammation and damage the tissues that are supporting your implant.
We always recommend our patients in Houston to keep up with their six-monthly dental checkups. Not only do we clean your teeth but also look for any potential issues with your dental implants so they can be addressed early on.
Be Careful About Your Diet
One of the greatest benefits patients experience with dental implants is that they can almost eat everything they want. Still, you should be careful about some types of foods.
Avoid very hard foods like nuts, raw carrots, popcorn, and hard candies. Also, stay away from sticky foods like caramel or chewing gum that may tug on your implant restoration.
Watch Your Habits
Some people have the habit of chewing on ice. That’s another thing you should avoid with dental implants. Similarly, other habits like nail-biting or teeth-grinding can also put extra strain on your implants.
Our dentist can guide you on the best measures for keeping your implants and teeth healthy if you have these habits.
Avoid Smoking
Smoking or using tobacco products frequently increases the risk of implant failure. Smoking restricts blood flow to the tissues and also causes gum irritation. Quitting this habit can be very beneficial for dental implant success.
Final Thoughts
Dental implants are a worthwhile investment, both for your smile and oral health. To make them last, you have to follow some care guidelines and visit your dentist regularly. If you feel that there’s something wrong with your dental implants, visit our dental expert at Houston Biological Dentistry right away. Call (713) 785-7767 to schedule a visit.