Dental implants are highly promising for replacing missing teeth. They look good, they work like the real teeth, and, if you take care of them, they’ll stick around for the long haul. If you’ve just undergone an implant surgery or you’re thinking about it, knowing how to care for them is a big deal. Not only does it keep your mouth in shape, but it also protects the time and money you’ve put into your smile.
So, what are dental implants, and why do they need special attention?
They’re small titanium posts that your dentist places in your jawbone to stand in for lost tooth roots. After they go in, they bond with the bone – a process called osseointegration, which gives your new teeth a solid foundation.
Because these implants become part of your bone, they act a lot like real teeth.
But here’s the catch: they still need their own kind of care to keep working the way they should.
Daily care is simple but essential. Like your natural teeth, implants need regular maintenance. Sure, they won’t get cavities, but plaque and gum disease can still be a problem.
Here’s what you should do:
- Brush and floss every day. Twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush does the trick—just like you would with your natural teeth. Don’t skip flossing, either. It removes food and plaque around the gums and the implant.
- Pick the right products. Stick with non-abrasive toothpaste and mouthwash. Some pastes are too gritty and can wear down your implants over time. Look for ones made for implants.
- Clean along the gum line. The implant itself won’t decay, but the gums around it can still get infected. Cleaning this area helps prevent gum disease, which is the last thing you want.
- Watch what you eat. Implants are tough, but they’re not imperishable. Biting down on hard items like ice or chowing down on sticky foods like caramel can mess with your implants and your gums. Best to steer clear.
- Don’t skip the dentist. Regular checkups matter. Your dentist keeps an eye on your implants and gums, looking for any issues such as infections or implant problems. Plus, those professional cleanings remove the stubborn stuff your toothbrush can’t reach.
If you’re getting dental implants in Newton, make sure you see a dentist who really knows implant care. They’ll give you advice tailored to your mouth.
Lifestyle Choices
Your habits matter, too. The way you live can make a big difference in how long your implants last. Here’s what helps:
- Quit smoking. Smoking slows down healing and raises your risk for gum disease, which puts your implants at risk. Quitting is a smart move if you want your implants to last.
- Protect your teeth during sports or at night. If you play contact sports or grind your teeth, use a mouthguard. It keeps your implants and the rest of your mouth safe from damage.
- Eat well. A balanced diet helps keep your gums and teeth in good shape. It also helps your implants heal and stay strong.
How long do implants last?
With the right care, for a really long time. More than 95% of dental implants last at least 10 years, according to studies. Stick to a solid care routine, and you can count on your implants for decades.
At the end of the day, dental implants are a great way to get back your smile and boost your confidence. Keep up with daily care, protect your investment, and don’t be shy about reaching out to our team if you have questions. We’re here to help you keep that smile looking good for years.
