How to Maintain Dental Implants

Woman looking at herself in the mirror

Having dental implants can change your life, especially if you’ve experienced tooth loss. Dental implants are an exceptional tooth replacement option that mimics natural teeth in function and appearance. But how do you ensure the long-term success of your dental implants? Proper maintenance is critical. Just like your natural teeth, dental implants require care and attention.

Why Is Dental Implant Care Important?

Just because dental implants aren’t your natural teeth doesn’t mean they don’t need attention. Here’s why:

  • Oral Health: The longevity of your dental implants hinges on maintaining good oral hygiene. Gum disease can develop around the implant post without proper care, leading to complications.
  • Gum Disease: Poor oral health can lead to gum disease. And while dental implants aren’t susceptible to cavities like natural teeth, the surrounding gum tissue is still vulnerable to periodontal disease.
  • Tooth Replacement Longevity: Dental implants can last a lifetime with proper maintenance. On the contrary, negligence can significantly reduce your dental implant’s lifespan.

How to Ensure the Long-Term Success of Dental Implants

  • Regular Brushing: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush or an electric toothbrush for cleaning. This ensures the removal of food particles and prevents tartar buildup. Soft bristles are essential as they won’t damage the implant crowns or surrounding gum tissue.
  • Flossing: Regular use of dental floss or water flosser ensures that the tight spaces around the dental implant site are clean. Interdental brushes can also remove debris around the dental implant crowns.
  • Diet: Like natural teeth, what you eat can impact your dental implant. Stick to a healthy diet rich in vitamins and minerals. Avoid sticky or hard foods that can put undue pressure on your dental implant placement.
  • Regular Dental Visits: Schedule regular dental check-ups at our Mesa, AZ, dental office to monitor the health of your dental implant. This can prevent potential issues like dental implant failure or complications with the implant post.
  • Non-Abrasive Toothpaste: For dental implant care, it’s recommended to use non-abrasive toothpaste. This ensures that the implant doesn’t suffer from undue wear and tear.
  • Avoid Smoking: Smoking can interfere with the healing process after dental implant surgery. It can also lead to gum disease around the implant site.

Ask the Dental Implant Experts at Restoration Dental!

For any questions or further guidance on dental implant maintenance, the experienced team at Restoration Dental in Mesa, AZ, is always here to help. Remember, dental implant procedure success heavily relies on proper aftercare. Your implants mirror natural teeth in many ways, and just like any aspect of health, prevention through care is always better than seeking a cure.