Have you recently got implants for one or more teeth? Aren't they such a beautiful replacement to your natural teeth. It lets you bite and chew normally and are always fixed in your mouth firmly. But perhaps, the best advantage of implant is that it can last for a long time if maintained properly. But how to maintain dental implants? Here are some tips that will help you increase the life of dental implants:
1. Brush twice daily
Brushing twice daily for 2 minutes is the most important step. Although, dental implants cannot get carious but it obtains its support for bone and gums, so you have to make sure that these along with adjoining natural teeth remain healthy.
2. Floss atleast once a day
Flossing around dental implants is as essential as it is for regular teeth simply because it reaches that narrow space between implants that brushes cannot. There are various kinds of interdental aids available in the market such as interdental brushes, traditional floss, water flossers, etc. Talk to your dentist and understand which one is best for you. Be prepared to try different tools as you might need a combination of techniques to get the best results. At each appointment discuss the problems that you’re facing while using them and ask them to demonstrate the right technique of using it.
3. Visit Your dentist every 3 to 6 Months
Unlike regular teeth, implants might need cleanings more often than with your natural teeth. You maybe required to see the dentist as often as every three months. However, people develop plaque and tartar at different rates, so you might still only need to visit your dentist for cleaning twice a year. Ask your dentist what’s best, and be prepared to change your routine as recommended.
4. Ask about Mouthwash
Another trusted technique for cleaning around dental implants is a mouth wash. There are many different types of mouth rinses on the market, alcohol and non-alcohol based. Ask your dentist whether using mouthwash is good for you and if yes then whic one is right for you.
5. Watch for Signs of Trouble
You are the first line of defense for your own dental implants, so it’s critical for you to keep an eye out for possible signs of complications. This includes any deviation from the expected course of healing, setbacks in your healing, or new symptoms around your dental implants, such as redness, pain, pus formation or looseness. Natural teeth may have some notable movement, but dental implants should be firm and immobile.
6. Stop Smoking
Stop smoking as it can increase your likelihood of gum disease which may further affect the healing of the implant and the longevity of the treatment.
7. Wear a night guard
This step is not necessary for everyone with dental implants, but it really helps anyone who has a habit of grinding their teeth or frequently participates in contact sports. Pain in muscles surrounding your mouth, clicking sound on opening and closing of mouth, chipping off of top layer of teeth or crown are some of the signs that your have a habit of clenching your jaws tightly (also know as bruxism).
Stay in touch with your dentist. For the slightest pain, discomfort, or questions, always run to your dentist before things worsen. The first few months of using dental implants are always the most critical, so extra care is needed, especially against infections around the healing tissues. Keeping your implants as healthy as possible and in optimal condition is not hard. It just takes a little bit of perseverance, and dedication. How well you look after your dental implants greatly affects how long your implanted teeth will last. Proper maintenance will therefore, save you time, money, and prevent discomfort in the long run.
To learn more about proper maintenance or address your concerns regarding dental implants, please call +91720866700 or contact Rathi Dental Care in Thane today.
Rohan
Dr. Rathi, thank you for sharing this. I will surely try to follow it.
Vishwanath
That’s a great article dr. shruti. Thank you for sharing it.
shruti.maroo
Thank you 🙂
Sagar
Very good article.
Paget
What an insightful article! Your ability to break down complex topics into easily understandable points is truly commendable. I appreciate the thorough research and the engaging writing style that keeps readers hooked from start to finish. Thank you for sharing your knowledge and providing such valuable content. I look forward to reading more of your work in the future!