Dental implants are long-lasting, permanent tooth replacements. They are a popular choice among patients for their durability and ability to look and feel like natural teeth. However, dental implants are an investment, and they should be cared for as such. Follow the tips below to help extend the life span of your implants and prevent implant failure.
Twice daily brushing, daily flossing, and regular dental checkups are integral to caring for dental implants. Although the implants themselves are not subject to tooth decay, the surrounding bone and gums may deteriorate. Therefore, neglecting one’s dental hygiene can lead to peri-implantitis (gum disease around the implants), infection, and other factors that cause dental implants to fail.
Do not brush dental implants with medium- or hard-bristled toothbrushes. Instead, opt for soft nylon toothbrushes to prevent scratching and wearing away the implant’s surface. It is also best to use toothpaste and mouthwash made for sensitive teeth. In addition, avoid abrasive oral health products like at-home dental picks.
Tobacco and acidic alcohol can wear away dental implants. Smoking and drinking can also slow down the healing process after getting implants. A longer recovery period may increase one’s chance of improper healing and infection — two common causes of dental implant failure. Refrain from smoking and drinking for at least 72 hours after first getting implants; if possible, do not drink or smoke for the first six months.
Some types of alcohol are worse for dental implants than others. For instance, red wine easily stains implants. However, a glass of wine every now and then should be okay. Drinking in moderation is fine in most cases.
Watching what one eats after dental implant surgery allows for proper healing, which in turn sets the implants up for a long life. Only eat soft, liquid foods the day after getting implants. This may include yogurt, applesauce, pudding, soup, mashed potatoes, and similar foods. As the mouth heals, the patient may start eating soft food that requires some chewing, like pasta, rice, eggs, and steamed vegetables. Regular food, like meat, should be safe to eat after a couple of weeks.
Dietary changes remain important after the healing stage, however. Limit sugar and acid intake to prevent peri-implantitis. Drinking too much coffee and tea can also stain implants, shortening their life span.
Patients who grind their teeth at night may benefit from sleeping with nightguards. Grinding the teeth with dental implants can wear them down quickly. If grinding is excessive, they may even chip away or crack.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Implants in Delray Beach, FL
Dental implants last for 10 to 15 years on average. They can, however, last for decades with proper care. For more information on how to make dental implants last as long as possible, contact our team.
Request an appointment or call Care One Dental of Delray at 561-894-0268 for an appointment in our Delray Beach office.
Dental implants are small, titanium screws placed into the jawbone where a tooth was removed. The implant fuses with the jawbone over time and supports a crown, bridge, or denture. This article will review six warning signs that it is time to inquire about dental implants.Many people (adults) postpone receiving treatment after losing a tooth…
As a patient considering dental implants, there are some important things that you need to know. Dental implants are a popular and effective way to replace missing teeth, but they require careful consideration and planning to ensure their success. This article will go over the basics of dental implants and what you can expect from…
You may not be aware that you need dental implants. But your dentist can tell you that you do, especially if you have regular checkups. Knowing if you need these restorations can motivate you to see your dentist about getting these dental replacements. Here are the three signs that you may need dental implants.Tooth loss…