05 Apr Do Dental Implants Require Special Care?
Dental implants are permanent posts placed in the gum line to replace lost teeth. The implants fuse with the jaw bone, creating a sturdy surface to which the dentist can affix an artificial tooth. When considering whether to take advantage of implant dentistry, many patients want to know if the implants require special care.
Dental implants can be cared for just like your other, natural teeth, in most cases. One of the major benefits of implants is that they look and act just like your regular teeth. Proper oral hygiene habits are enough to make implants last for decades along with various cosmetic and general dental services.
You will need to brush them at least twice a day, preferably after meals, with a soft bristled toothbrush. Brush the front, back, and sides of each implant. Floss around them every day. Here at The Dental Place, we may also recommend a mouth rinse to use.
The gums around the surgical site may be tender during the first week after the procedure. Your implant dentist may suggest that you alter your diet to include softer foods during this short healing period. You will also want to brush and floss with a gentler hand. Once the implant heals, you can resume your regular oral hygiene routine.
Patients should avoid smoking (or the use of any tobacco products) both immediately after surgery and for the life of the implant. Smoking can irritate the gum tissue and lead to failure of the implant.
Maintain a schedule of routine check-ups and cleanings with Dr. Robert D. Maxey or Dr. Cecil F. George, Jr., just like you did with your regular teeth. These visits will give your dental care team a chance to give the implants a deep cleaning, and to evaluate them. Routine visits will ensure that any problems are detected early.
Failure to brush and floss the implants with the proper frequency can lead to an infection of the surgical site, receding gums, and possibly implant failure. In fact, poor oral hygiene is the number one cause of implant failure. By caring for your implants just like you would your regular teeth, you will help them last a lifetime.
If you would like to learn more about dental implants in the Grand Prairie area, contact The Dental Place at 972-264-5795 and schedule your consultation today.