6 Proven Tips: Dental Implant Care And A Lasting Smile
Restoring your smile doesn’t stop after your dental implants are installed. You must ensure you practice proper dental implant care to reap their full benefits and last.
Dental implant aftercare begins the second you leave your dentist’s office.
So, what must you do to care for and maintain your implants?
Avoid Using Strong or Harsh Oral Hygiene Products
Abrasive oral hygiene products can cause severe discomfort and pain. Whether it’s fluoride toothpaste or mouthwash, it’s best to avoid them after getting dental implants. You’d better stick to sensitive cleaning products until you’ve fully recovered.
Generally, you’d also want to avoid using oral hygiene products with intense flavors, such as mint. They can cause a tingling sensation in your mouth that can be uncomfortable.
Stick to Soft and Easy-to-eat Foods
Avoid eating sticky or hard foods, as they can damage your dental implants alongside their neighboring teeth. It’s best to eat soft and easy-to-eat foods like porridge.
Here are a few foods to avoid after having implants installed:
- Caramel
- Any dried fruit
- Hard candies
- Chips
- Steak
- Bread with thick/crispy crusts
- Raw carrots, apples, etc.
You can keep your dental implants healthy by avoiding these foods during recovery.
Stop Smoking and Drinking Alcohol
Smoking or drinking alcohol during the 3- to 6-month healing period can slow the process. And halting your smoking and drinking habits during your recovery won’t only protect your implants — but your overall health as well.
Start Brushing Your Teeth with a Soft Nylon Brush
It might be the best time to switch your brushes if you’re used to using hard-bristled toothbrushes. They can scratch the implant’s surface, resulting in premature wear and tear.
Use a soft nylon brush to brush your teeth after dental implants. This specialized toothbrush comes with pliable and gentle bristles, allowing you to clean your implants without damaging them.
Don’t Forget to Floss
Did you know that around 20% of American adults don’t floss? And though many are embracing flossing more, millions still neglect it.
If you’re part of that, it’s time to switch and begin flossing now that you have dental implants intact.
Plaque and tartar can accumulate around implants fast, leading to several oral hygiene issues.
Luckily, you can access many flosses designed explicitly for dental implants, making it easier for you.
Continue Your Regular Visits to the Dentist
Although dental implants can help restore and improve your smile, they can’t address all dental hygiene issues! So, remember to continue visiting your dentist after your surgery.
It would be best to visit your dentist bi-yearly for regular check-ups, cleanings, etc.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What’s a foolproof way to make my dental implants last longer?
A: Follow a good oral hygiene routine alongside regular dental check-ups. And if you smoke, it’s best to quit smoking or using tobacco products, as they can wear out your teeth faster and turn them yellow! Finally, if you grind your teeth often, use a night guard to prevent premature wear and tear.
Q: How long will dental implants last with proper care and maintenance?
A: If meticulously maintained and cared for, you can enjoy your newly installed dental implants for the rest of your life. But implants may last less or more than the estimate for several reasons. So, remember to practice proper oral hygiene.
Q: What toothpaste works best for dental implants?
A: Non-abrasive and tartar control toothpaste are the best for dental implants. It maintains the implant’s surface well, keeping it from plaque and tartar. Aside from that, avoid using toothpaste with baking soda or excess fluoride.
Q: What’s the major issue with dental implants?
A: Getting an infection around your dental implants is very common among those who neglect post-op care. It can damage the surrounding blood vessels, teeth, and other tissues. And these all can lead to severe pain and numbness.
Q: Can I eat and drink after getting dental implants?
A: Avoid eating hard foods as this can chip the implants, so cut back on the chips and hard-shell tacos for a while. Aside from that, it’s best to avoid sticky foods as this can stick the implants, causing cavities. And as for the drinks, it’s best to avoid acidic, caffeinated, and hot ones.
Are You Ready for Dental Implants Care?
Caring for dental implants is straightforward, preserving your smile for a lifetime. If you have concerns about dental implant care or want to schedule the surgery, don’t hesitate to contact us at (619) 344-0475.
