Dental implants can give you a beautiful smile and boost your confidence, but taking good care of them is important for them to last. In this article, we’ll discuss seven common mistakes people make when caring for their dental implants and how to avoid them. By understanding these mistakes, you’ll be able to keep your dental implants in great shape for a long time.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that provide a permanent base for fixed or removable replacement teeth. They are made of a biocompatible material that fuses with the jawbone and provides a stable foundation for replacement teeth.
Dental implants are an excellent option for people who have lost one or more teeth due to injury, periodontal disease, or other reasons. They offer several benefits over other tooth replacement options such as bridges and dentures.
Dental implants look, feel, and function like natural teeth and can last for decades with proper care.
The dental implant procedure involves several steps, including;
- a consultation with a dental implant specialist
- the placement of the implant into the jawbone
- the attachment of a crown, bridge, or denture to the implant
The process may take several months to complete, but the end result is a permanent tooth replacement that restores the patient’s smile and confidence.
One of the significant advantages of dental implants is that they help preserve the jawbone and prevent bone loss. When a tooth is lost, the bone that supported it begins to deteriorate, leading to a sunken-in appearance and a weaker jaw. Dental implants stimulate the bone and promote healthy bone growth, maintaining the integrity of the jawbone.
Now that we’ve established exactly what dental implants are, let’s take a look at some mistakes that people often make in looking after them.
Mistake 1: Not Following a Regular Implant Care Routine
Some people think that dental implants don’t need as much care as natural teeth, but that’s not true. A regular implant care routine is important to keep your implants in good shape.
To avoid this mistake:
- Brush your implants twice a day with a soft-bristled or electric toothbrush
- Floss around your implants daily using dental floss or a water flosser
- Rinse your mouth with an antimicrobial mouthwash every day
- Talk to a dental implant specialist to get personalized advice for your implants
As Dr. Robert Govoni at Brushin’ on Belmont emphasizes, establishing and maintaining a consistent implant care routine is crucial for the long-term success of your dental implants.
Mistake 2: Using the Wrong Cleaning Tools for Your Implants
It’s important to use the right tools to clean your dental implants. Regular toothbrushes might be too harsh for your implants and cause damage.
To avoid this mistake:
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush or a gentle electric toothbrush made for dental implants
- Choose interdental brushes or water flossers to clean around the implant effectively
- Stay away from abrasive toothpaste that could scratch the implant surface
Dr. Bob, one of the dental professionals at Brushin’ on Belmont, highly recommends using the appropriate cleaning tools to ensure your dental implants remain in great condition.
Mistake 3: Skipping Regular Dental Implant Check-ups
Going to regular dental implant check-ups is important for keeping your implants healthy. These visits let your dentist check your implant and catch any problems early.
To stay on track with your implant care:
- Schedule dental implant check-ups at least twice a year, or as recommended by your dentist
- Use a calendar or set reminders so you don’t forget appointments
- Follow your dentist’s advice on extra visits or treatments, if needed
Dr. Monika from Brushin’ on Belmont stresses the importance of attending regular dental implant check-ups to keep your implants healthy and detect potential issues early on.
Mistake 4: Ignoring Signs of Infection or Problems
If you have pain, swelling, or other unusual symptoms around your dental implant, don’t ignore them. These could be signs of infection or other problems that need quick attention.
To prevent this mistake:
- Call your dental implant specialist as soon as you notice any signs of trouble
- Make an emergency appointment if needed
- Follow your dentist’s instructions about medication, rest, or more treatment
The team at Brushin’ on Belmont, including Dr. Robert Govoni, advises patients to always pay attention to any signs of infection or complications, and to seek immediate professional help.
Mistake 5: Not Eating Right and Drinking Enough Water
Your diet and how much water you drink can affect the health of your dental implants, just like with natural teeth. Eating a balanced diet and staying hydrated can help keep your implants healthy.
To improve your nutrition:
- Eat a balanced diet with fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains
- Cut down on sugary snacks and drinks that can cause plaque to build up around the implant
- Drink enough water to help create a healthy environment for your dental implants
Dr. Bob at Brushin’ on Belmont highlights the importance of proper nutrition and hydration in maintaining the health of your dental implants.
Mistake 6: Continuing Bad Habits That Can Harm Your Implants
Bad habits like smoking, chewing on hard objects, or using your teeth to open packages can damage your dental implants. These actions can cause your implant to crack, become loose, or even fail completely.
To protect your dental implants:
- Avoid smoking and using tobacco products, which can slow down healing and increase the risk of implant failure
- Don’t chew on hard items like ice, pens, or hard candy
- Use the right tools, such as scissors or bottle openers, instead of your teeth or implants
Dr. Monika from Brushin’ on Belmont reminds patients to avoid harmful oral habits that could jeopardize the longevity and success of their dental implants.
Mistake 7: Not Learning How to Take Care of Your Implants
It’s important to learn the right way to clean your dental implants. If you don’t clean them properly, it can lead to plaque buildup, swollen gums, and even implant failure.
To learn how to care for your implants:
- Ask your dental implant specialist for advice on the right cleaning techniques
- Go to any classes or workshops your dentist offers on dental implant care
- Stay up-to-date with new tips or recommendations for dental implant care
- Ask for professional advice if you’re unsure about any part of your implant care
Dr. Robert Govoni and the team at Brushin’ on Belmont encourage patients to educate themselves on proper dental implant care techniques to ensure their implants stay healthy and functional.
Avoiding Mistakes in Dental Implant Care
To ensure the success and longevity of your dental implants, it is essential to provide diligent care. Fortunately, by avoiding the common mistakes in dental implant care that we have highlighted in this article, you can significantly enhance the well-being of your implants.
By taking these precautions to heart, you will be able to maintain a healthy and beautiful smile for years to come. So, it is vital to be cautious and attentive in your dental implant care routine to avoid any complications or issues.
If you want to speak to us about dental implants, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us at Brushin’ on Belmont today!