Caring for Your Dental Implants
Dental implants are an incredibly popular, extremely effective treatment for replacing missing teeth. Treatment with implants is unlike any other type of tooth replacement method. Implants use small titanium posts, which are surgically implanted into your jawbone. The posts act as replacement roots for your dental restorations, holding your new teeth securely in place. Dental implants are designed to be a long-term solution to tooth loss and can even be permanent. For them to remain strong and functional, however, they do need to be taken care of properly. Sussex Dental can help.
Why Do Implants Need Care?Taking care of your dental implants is just as important as taking care of your natural teeth. Even if all of your teeth have been replaced, they still require daily care. While your dental restorations are made from ceramic and cannot develop tooth decay and cavities, they can still collect plaque and bacteria, both of which can lead to the development of gum disease. When gum disease develops, your swollen gums begin to pull away from your teeth, including your dental restorations. This allows bacteria to collect below your gum line, where they start attacking your jawbone. The bone weakens, compromising the stability of both your natural teeth and your implant posts. If the posts become weak, your implants can fail.
Your Oral Care Routine at HomeMost of the care for your dental implants takes place at home. While this care is much less tedious than care for dentures, it is still essential that you brush your teeth, both real and replacement, at least twice a day and floss at least once a day. When you brush, do so for two full minutes every time. Using a soft-bristled toothbrush and toothpaste, brush all surfaces of your teeth with gentle, circular motions. To floss, work the floss gently back and forth to get it between your teeth. Clean the sides of each tooth and do not forget to floss behind your very back teeth. Mouthwash can also be beneficial for eliminating any lingering debris and bacteria. To provide additional protection for your replacement teeth, avoid biting and chewing on hard food and objects and wear a mouth guard if you play sports.
Getting Professional Dental CareEven if all of your teeth have been replaced with dental implants, it is essential that you continue to have regular dental cleanings and exams. Your cleanings are important for eliminating any buildup that has accumulated on your teeth, preventing the formation of gum disease and other oral health conditions. Exams allow us to monitor your natural teeth, your dental restorations, and your gums. We can check for early warning signs of decay, damage, and gum disease, and provide you with the treatments you need to prevent more serious consequences. Spotting issues early enable us to provide minimally invasive, less expensive procedures to restore your oral health and keep your dental implants functioning properly.
Taking care of your dental implants helps to ensure that they remain a strong, stable, long-term solution for replacing your missing teeth. For more information on how to care for your dental implants, call Sussex Dental today at (262) 246-6806. |
