Dental implants effectively restore the look and feel of natural teeth, making them the best available way to treat missing teeth. But, to ensure they withstand the test of time, it’s crucial to care for them properly.
Here are our top tips for long-lasting success with your dental implants:
1. Attend All of Your Regular Dental Cleanings.
Regular exams and cleanings are crucial to the long-term success of your Largo dental implants. Your hygienist will remove any accumulated plaque to prevent gum inflammation and infection, while your dentist can check for any early indications of implant failure.
2. Brush at Least Twice Daily.
Brushing at least twice daily helps remove food particles and bacteria that could irritate your gums and lead to infection. Make sure to use a soft-bristled toothbrush and a non-abrasive toothpaste.
3. Floss Daily.
We know that flossing can be a difficult daily habit to adopt. But, it’s crucial to floss around your natural teeth and dental implants to prevent tooth decay and gum inflammation. Some people with dental implants find it easier to use a water flosser to get in between the teeth and implants.
4. Consider an Anti-Bacterial Mouthwash.
Rinsing with an antibacterial mouthwash can prevent bacterial buildup in your mouth, reducing the risk of infected implants. Just make sure to avoid mouthwashes with alcohol, as it can irritate your gums and even contribute to implant damage in the long term.
5. Quit Smoking.
Smoking contributes to a variety of oral health issues. But, if you have dental implants, smoking can be particularly harmful, as it compromises your body’s healing process and can keep the implants from fusing to the jawbone.
6. Avoid or Limit Certain Foods.
Very hard, sticky, or chewy foods aren’t ideal to eat with dental implants. Hard candies, nuts, and some raw vegetables can place excessive impact on the implants, creating the risk of damage. Caramels, taffy, and similar candies can stick to and pull on the implants, increasing bacterial buildup.
At Dental Implant Solutionz, we’ll provide detailed aftercare instructions and additional tips to ensure the long-term success of your Largo dental implants. Contact us today to schedule your appointment!
