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Dental implants are durable and a long-term solution for missing teeth, but their longevity depends entirely on proper care. Although implants do not decay, their surrounding gums and bones require constant care. So it’s essential to care for dental implants Riverview. Let’s explore how to maintain your dental implants for years to come:
1. Maintain a Consistent Oral Hygiene Routine
Peri-implantitis is an inflammatory condition that can cause bone destruction around the implant. It must always be prevented by maintaining good oral hygiene. Brush your teeth twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush and low-abrasive toothpaste to keep the implant surface safe and intact. Flossing or interdental brushes are necessary to remove plaque between the implant and nearby teeth daily.
2. Specific Cleaning Tools
A specific tool might be needed for dental implants – specialized cleaning tools. Have these:
- Water flossers: These clean around the implant and gumline gently, removing plaque.
- Antimicrobial mouthwash: A non-alcoholic mouthwash can reduce bacteria and inflammation.
- Implant-specific floss: Designed to slide easily around implants, it prevents irritation and plaque buildup.
3. Schedule Regular Dental Checkups
Routine dental visits are essential for implant maintenance—plan for professional cleaning and exams at least twice a year. Your dentist will watch your gums for healthy signs of infection or implant failure. They might even recommend some X-rays to see how much integration has been made with the bone.
4. Avoid Harmful Habits
Some habits may shorten the life of your dental implants. Avoid:
- Smoking: Smoking will delay healing and increase the chances of implant failure.
- Bruxism (teeth grinding): Grinding or clenching can put too much pressure on implants. If you grind your teeth, consider wearing a nightguard.
- Hard foods: Chewing ice, hard candies, or using your teeth as tools can damage the implant crown.
5. Healthy Lifestyle
A healthy diet and lifestyle help ensure the success of the implant. Focus on:
- Calcium-rich foods to help maintain bone health.
- Hydration to keep healthy gums.
- Cut back on dessert treats, as this is also an offender to gum disease.
6. Seek Early Attention If Something Goes Wrong
Call your dentist in Riverview immediately if your gums are irritated, sensitive, or loose over the implant. Early detection prevents serious complications.
Conclusion
Good maintenance of dental implants is possible, but it requires constant effort. Maintaining high hygiene with regular dental checkups, steering away from bad habits, and taking care of your health guarantee that you will enjoy the benefits of your implants for many years. Proper care keeps your smile strong, beautiful, and healthy for a long time.