Dental implants are a remarkable solution for restoring a natural-looking smile and functional bite. However, it is vital to maintain proper oral hygiene after getting a dental implant to have long-term success.
It does not matter whether you have recently undergone implant surgery or have had implants for some time; it is important to follow a few tips that will ensure the longevity and health of your dental implant.
What is a Dental Implant?
A dental implant is a surgical component used in dentistry to replace missing teeth. It consists of a titanium post surgically inserted under the gum line into the jawbone to act as a prosthetic root for a bridge or replacement tooth. As the implant gradually integrates with the surrounding bone, it offers a strong base for dental restorations like crowns, bridges, and dentures.
The visible portion of the dental implant is a custom-made tooth designed to match the natural teeth in size, shape, and color. They offer a long-term solution for individuals seeking to replace missing teeth, which provides enhanced comfort, durability, and an improved ability to chew and speak without the inconvenience of removable dentures. But if you have been thinking of getting this treatment, then you should visit a dental implant near me!
Why Do People Get Dental Implant Treatment?
People opt for dental implant treatment for several reasons, primarily to restore their oral health, functionality, and aesthetics. The primary motivations for getting dental implants include-
Replacement of Missing Teeth
The best option for replacing lost teeth is to use a dental implant. Implants provide a strong, aesthetically pleasing substitute for bridges or dentures, whether used to replace one or more teeth.
Enhanced Bite and Chewing Function
Implants work similarly to natural teeth and offer stability. They restore the ability to eat a wide range of foods by enabling people to bite and chew comfortably.
Preservation of Oral Health
Because missing teeth frequently result in bone loss in the jaw, implants help to preserve dental health. Unlike dental bridges, they do not necessitate modifying or damaging adjoining teeth.
Long-term Durability
Dental implants have a rate of high success & can last a lifetime with proper care. This long-term durability makes them popular for individuals seeking a permanent tooth replacement solution.
Improved Aesthetics
Dental implants improve the smile and general appearance of the face by blending in perfectly with natural teeth. They preserve the contours of the face and avoid the sunken appearance frequently brought on by tooth loss.
Tips to Consider After Dental Implant
Have you been thinking of getting a dental implant? If you have, then you should be so excited about it. It also helps you feel more confident about your smile. But if you are getting it done, you should keep a few things in mind and care for your dental implants.
Prioritize the Right Dental Hygiene
It is critical to maintain better oral hygiene following dental implant surgery. Use a soft toothbrush twice a day to gently brush your teeth. The implant region requires particular attention, so thoroughly clean it without irritating it. Apply toothpaste that is not abrasive to preserve a dental implant and natural teeth.
Schedule Regular Visits to the Dentist
Implants in your teeth can make your smile better. They cannot, however, resolve every problem relating to oral hygiene. You should schedule at least 2 annual dental visits, which depend on your general oral health. Your dental implants can endure a lifetime if you take good care of them and see the Valley Creek Family Dentistry frequently.
Avoid Smoking and Alcohol
In general, it is a good idea to abstain from alcohol and tobacco. However, if you have dental implants, you must avoid these things.
Recall that it takes around six months for your dental implants to recover; therefore, smoking during this time can be quite harmful. Additionally, there is evidence that alcohol use slows down the healing process of dental implants. Therefore, it is best to steer clear of it.
Avoid Sticky and Hard Food
Eating things that are sticky or firm can harm your implants. Not to add, eating certain foods can harm teeth on the opposite side. After receiving implants, you should stay away from the following foods:
Ice
Caramel
Dried Fruit
Hard Candies
Steak
Apples
Potato Chips
Hardshell Tacos
Crusty Bread, such as French Bread
Floss Daily
Now that you have dental implants, it is time to make changes if you fall into this statistic. When you get dental implants, flossing becomes even more crucial. This is because plaque can quickly build up around the implants and cause further problems with oral hygiene.
The good news is that there are lots of flosses available that are made especially for people who have dental implants, so there's no reason why you should not brush your teeth. If you find it difficult to carve out time during the day to floss, bear the following advice in mind to help you floss more frequently:
1. Set a Reminder on Your Phone
On the days when you feel like you're too busy, this is excellent!
2. Stash Floss in Your Car or Purse
You may make the most of your downtime by keeping floss on hand to take care of your teeth.
3. Reward Yourself for Flossing
It Is acceptable if you require encouragement to begin flossing at last. Give yourself a treat by watching an extra episode of your preferred program. Give yourself a higher price if you floss for 30 days. Imagine a day at the spa or a new pair of shoes!
4. Do it While You are Watching TV
It won't feel like as much of a chore to floss if you do it while distracting activities like watching TV or doing something else. Investing in a Waterpik might also be a smart move, as it eliminates a lot of the tedious work involved in flossing.
Use a Soft Nylon Brush
You may need to change toothbrushes following dental implants.
This is because the bristles of nylon toothbrushes are flexible and kind to your dental implants. For cleaning the difficult-to-reach regions surrounding your dental implants, you can also use a Proxabrush.
Hard-bristled toothbrushes should be avoided as they may harm the surface of your implants. Once your implants are in place, you should stop cleaning your mouth with metal equipment. Just continue to brush and floss twice a day as usual instead.
Stay Hydrated
It is crucial to stay hydrated to preserve dental health. Water is a great way to keep your mouth wet and promote natural cleaning. Maintaining adequate hydration also helps to avoid dry mouth, which can exacerbate oral health problems.
Manage Systemic Health Conditions
Several systemic health issues, including diabetes, can negatively impact dental implant surgery and recovery. It is essential to collaborate closely with your healthcare experts to handle any underlying issues and make sure your dental health is not jeopardized.
Conclusion
Dental implants can improve your smile, self-esteem, and general quality of life. But to keep these implants healthy and long-lasting, frequent dental care and good oral hygiene habits are necessary. You can guarantee your dental implants will stay in top shape for many years to come by adhering to these pointers and recommendations.