New patients Welcome! Extended hours!     BOOK ONLINE NOW
How To Care For Your Dental Implants And Keep Them Healthy
May 15, 2023  |  Dental Implants

How To Care For Your Dental Implants And Keep Them Healthy


Are you one of the many people who have invested in dental implants? If so, congratulations on taking a step towards improving your smile and oral health. Dental implants are an excellent investment that can last for years if taken care of properly. However, without proper maintenance, they may not last as long or be as effective. In this blog post, we'll give you tips on how to care for your dental implants and keep them healthy so that you can enjoy a beautiful smile for years to come!





What Are Dental Implants?





Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that are placed into the jawbone to provide a strong foundation for replacement teeth. They are typically made of titanium and biocompatible materials that fuse with the bone over time.





There are different types of dental implants, including endosteal implants which are surgically placed directly into the jawbone, subperiosteal implants which sit on top of the jawbone but under the gum tissue, and zygomatic implants which use longer screws to attach to the cheekbones instead of the upper jaw.





Dental implant procedures involve several steps including an initial consultation with your dentist or oral surgeon, placement of the implant into your jawbone, a healing period during which osseointegration occurs (the process by which bone grows around and fuses to the implant), placement of an abutment onto which a prosthetic tooth will eventually be attached, and finally attachment of a custom-made crown or bridge.





Dental implants offer many benefits over other tooth replacement options such as dentures or bridges. They look and feel like natural teeth, allow you to eat comfortably without worrying about slippage or movement in your mouth, can help prevent bone loss in your jaw from missing teeth, and can last for many years with proper care.





What Are The Different Types Of Dental Implants?





Dental implants are a popular solution for missing teeth. They are surgically implanted into the jawbone and provide a natural-looking replacement tooth. However, not all dental implants are created equal. There are different types of dental implants that vary in materials, shape, and size.





One type of implant is called an endosteal implant. These are the most common type of dental implant used today because they can support one or more false teeth with ease. Endosteal implants consist of titanium screws that fuse to the jawbone and act as artificial roots.





Another type of dental implant is the subperiosteal implant which sits on top of the bone under gum tissue but above your jawbone, unlike endosteal implants which go directly into your jawbone. This option may be recommended if you don't have enough healthy natural tooth roots left to use for anchorage.





Zygomatic Implants require drilling through much denser bones than traditional methods so it requires highly skilled dentists with specialized training to place them correctly inside your mouth without damaging any nerves or other vital organs located nearby.





Ultimately, choosing what kind of dental implant will depend on various factors like overall health condition, available budget, location (either upper or lower arch), patient’s oral hygiene habits etcetera but discussing about this matter extensively with your dentist will always help you make an informed decision regarding what's best for you in terms of functionality and aesthetics!





How To Care For Dental Implants





Taking care of dental implants is vital for their longevity and your oral health. The good news is that caring for them isn't complicated, but it does require daily attention. Here are some tips on how to care for your dental implants:





1) Brushing And Flossing: 





Just like natural teeth, you need to brush your implant-supported teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush, using fluoride toothpaste. Don't forget to floss around each implant at least once a day.





2) Use Water Irrigators: 





Using water irrigators or oral irrigators can help clean the hard-to-reach spaces between the implants.





3) Avoid Hard Foods: 





Avoid biting down on hard foods such as ice cubes or nuts with your new teeth as these may damage them.





4) Regular Check-ups: 





Visit your dentist regularly every six months so they can examine the condition of both the dental implant and surrounding gums.





By following these simple steps, you'll ensure that your dental implants remain healthy and functional for many years to come.





Tips For Protecting Your Dental Implants





Once you have invested in dental implants, it is important to protect them so that they can last for years to come. Here are some tips for protecting your dental implants:





1. Maintain Good Oral Hygiene - 





Brush and floss your teeth regularly, especially after meals. Use an antimicrobial mouthwash as recommended by your dentist.





2. Avoid Hard Foods - 





Chewing on hard foods such as ice or candy can damage the crown of your implant, causing it to crack or break.





3. Wear A Mouthguard - 





If you engage in contact sports or grind your teeth at night, wearing a mouthguard can help prevent any damage to the implant.





4. Regular Dental Checkups - 





Visit your dentist every six months for regular checkups and cleanings. Your dentist will be able to monitor the health of your implant and detect any potential issues early on.





By following these tips, you can keep your dental implants healthy and functioning well for many years to come!





The Bottom Line





Dental implants are an excellent solution for missing teeth. They not only look and feel like natural teeth but also offer long-term benefits. However, it's essential to take good care of them to ensure they last a lifetime.





By following the tips we've outlined in this article, you can keep your dental implants healthy and reduce the risk of complications such as infection or implant failure. Remember to maintain proper oral hygiene habits, avoid harmful habits like smoking or chewing on hard objects, and visit your dentist regularly for checkups.





With proper care and maintenance, dental implants can provide you with a beautiful and functional smile that will last for years to come. So go ahead and take the necessary steps today to keep your dental implants healthy!