5 Tips on Caring for Your Dental Implants
How to Care For Your Dental Implants
Dental implants are an excellent option for those who have lost teeth due to age, injury, or disease. This procedure involves placing an artificial tooth root in the jawbone capped with a crown to restore function and give patients the confidence to smile again. However, while dental implants are durable and long-lasting, they require proper care to ensure their longevity.
In this blog, the Fairfield Dental Arts dental implant specialists offer five tips to help you care for your dental implants and keep them healthy for years to come:
1. Brush and Floss Regularly
Like natural teeth, dental implants require regular brushing and flossing to remove plaque and prevent gum disease. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste to clean your implants gently. If you have difficulty reaching certain areas, consider investing in an interdental brush or water flosser to effectively clean the teeth and gums.
2. Avoid Hard and Sticky Foods
While dental implants are strong enough to withstand everyday chewing and biting, they’re not indestructible. Avoid chewing hard or sticky foods that could damage the implant or the crown. Examples of hard foods include nuts, popcorn, and ice, while sticky foods include caramel, taffy, and gum.
3. Use a Mouthguard During Sports
If you play sports or engage in other high-impact activities, protecting your dental implants from trauma or injury is essential. Wear a custom-fitted mouthguard designed to cushion your teeth and gums and prevent damage to your implants. Your dentist can help you find a mouthguard that fits comfortably and provides optimal protection.
4. Attend Regular Dental Checkups
Regular dental checkups are critical for maintaining oral health and catching potential problems early on. Your dentist will examine your dental implants and perform a deep cleaning to remove any plaque or tartar buildup around the implant. They’ll also check your bite and ensure your implants function correctly. Be sure to attend these appointments every six months or as your dentist recommends.
5. Quit Smoking
Smoking can have detrimental effects on your dental implants and oral health in general. Smoking can reduce the success rate of dental implant procedures and increase your risk of gum disease, leading to implant failure. Quitting smoking can improve your overall health and increase the lifespan of your dental implants.
If you’re looking to get dental implants, schedule an appointment with the expert dentists at Fairfield Dental Arts!
Whether you’re looking for single-tooth implants or full-mouth dental implants, our dentists at Fairfield Dental Arts are here for you. We are committed to providing you with a pleasant experience as our highly-skilled team works to make your beautiful smile complete. Contact us on our website or give us a call at 203-254-3780 to schedule an appointment.