How to Care For Your New Dental Implant Restoration
A dental implant restoration is a significant investment in your oral health. This tooth replacement option offers durability while improving the function and appearance of your smile. However, there are ways how you can ensure the long-term success and integrity of the restoration.
Daily oral hygiene practices
Keeping good oral hygiene is important for the longevity of a dental implant restoration. Patients should brush their teeth twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush to remove plaque and bacteria from the restoration and the soft tissue around it. Use non-abrasive toothpaste to prevent scratching the surface of the restoration.
Additionally, floss at least once daily with implant-friendly or interdental brushes. This practice cleans hard-to-reach spots and prevents plaque from building up. Patients can also use antimicrobial mouthwash to reduce the accumulation of bacteria and help their gum tissue around the restoration stay healthy.
Dietary guidelines for implant longevity
Certain dietary habits can affect how long the dental implant restoration lasts. Patients should avoid chewing on hard or sticky foods like ice, caramel, or hard candies. These can put extra stress on the implant and the abutment attached to it, whether it be a crown, bridge, or denture.
Additionally, the patient should avoid acidic foods and drinks, such as citrus fruits and fizzy drinks. These can harm the enamel and irritate the gum tissue. Instead, they should consume a balanced diet of vitamins and minerals to keep their mouth healthy and support strong gum tissue around the implant.
Avoid harmful habits
Certain harmful habits can jeopardize the success of a dental implant restoration. Smoking and tobacco use increase the risk of gum disease, which can lead to implant failure. Quitting smoking and other consumption of tobacco can improve the longevity of the restoration and the patient's overall oral health.
Bruxism, a condition where a person grinds their teeth, can also place excessive pressure on the restoration and surrounding bone structure. The dentist may recommend a night guard to protect the implant and remaining natural teeth against grinding. Additionally, patients should avoid using their teeth as tools to open packages or bite non-food objects to prevent accidental damage.
Regular dental checkups and professional cleanings
Routine dental visits are important for checking the health of a dental implant. Professional cleanings remove tartar buildup and help the dentist evaluate how stable the implant restoration is. Regular checkups allow the dentist to spot problems like gum swelling or unevenness before they get worse. The dentist can also recommend specific cleaning techniques or products to help the patient keep their mouth healthy.
Recognizing potential complications
While dental implant restorations have a high success rate, there are complications associated with the treatment. Patients should be aware of the following symptoms:
- Persistent pain
- Swollen gums
- Peri-implantitis
- Bleeding around the implant site
- Loose or shifting implant
- Implant fractures
Taking action as early as possible can help preserve the implant and surrounding oral structures.
Call our office to schedule an appointment
A dental implant restoration provides a durable and natural-looking solution for missing teeth. But you have to take proper care of it to ensure its long-term success. Following the guidelines above can help protect your investment and oral health to ensure that the restoration remains in optimal condition for years to come. Call our Bedford office to learn more or to schedule an appointment.
Request an appointment here: https://www.mareawhitedds.com or call Marea White, DDS at (817) 803-4691 for an appointment in our Bedford office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Implant Restoration in Bedford, TX.
Related Posts
Early gum disease treatment for those whose gums are starting to degrade can mean the difference between keeping your teeth and needing replacements later. You may think of good oral healthcare as just brushing your teeth and flossing, but taking care of the gums is equally important.Treating gum disease when it starts is simple. Patients…
Gum disease is a common oral health issue that can wreak havoc on the mouth if left untreated. Early detection and appropriate treatment can prevent severe complications, including tooth loss and systemic health concerns. Understanding the options for gum disease treatment can help patients make informed decisions about their oral health care.Gum disease, or periodontal…
The right gum disease treatment can restore the health of your teeth and gums. Your general dentist will assess your mouth first. Then, suggesting the right procedure will follow. Here are the choices of gum disease treatment you can discuss with your general dentist.Good oral care at home is ideal before and after gum disease…
Your general dentist will choose the right gum disease treatment for your situation. A full assessment will determine if you need surgical or non-surgical solutions. Understanding the processes is a good way to prepare for your appointment. Here is a comprehensive guide to your possible gum disease treatment.Studies show that most patients prefer a non-surgical…