There’s no better treatment for filling the gaps in your smile than dental implants. These revolutionary prosthetics replace the entirety of a tooth from root to crown. If you’ve recently received your first implant, congratulations! The hard part is over, so now you can focus on your oral health and habits to keep it looking and feeling great.
If you want to learn the dos and dont’s of dental implants, continue reading. You’ll learn which habits are good for your implant’s longevity, and which are not!
The Dos of Dental Implants
Here are the habits you want to focus on now that you have a new dental implant:
1. Prioritize Excellent Oral Hygiene:
Be sure to brush and floss your teeth regularly to maintain good oral health. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste to clean around your dental implants gently. Dental floss is also a must!
2. Schedule Regular Dental Checkups:
Keep up with routine dental checkups to maintain the health of your implants and address any concerns quickly before they progress.
3. Use a Nightguard for Bruxism:
If you grind your teeth, consider using a nightguard to protect your dental implants and natural teeth while you sleep. Dental implants are strong, but they won’t last with excessive grinding force.
4. Eat a Balanced Diet
Good, wholesome foods like lean meats, fresh grains, and crisp vegetables provide ample nutrition for your implant’s longevity. Not only will eating well improve your overall health but it will also give your teeth and gums the strength to keep your implant in place.
The Don’ts of Dental Implants
These are the harmful habits you should avoid with dental implants:
1. Avoid Chewing on Hard Objects:
Refrain from using your dental implants to chew on hard objects like ice, pens, or hard candies, as this can lead to damage.
2. Say No to Excessive Alcohol Consumption:
Limit alcohol intake to moderate levels, as excessive consumption may interfere with the healing process and implant stability. Alcohol is known to cause dry mouth and contribute to gum disease.
3. Steer Clear of Tobacco Use:
Say no to tobacco in all its forms to minimize the risk of infections and complications associated with dental implants. The chemicals in cigarettes and other tobacco products are known carcinogens and can cause several oral health issues. Stained teeth, bad breath, tooth loss, and oral cancer have all been linked to smoking and tobacco use.
4. Don’t Delay Seeking Treatment:
If you experience any discomfort, pain, or changes in your dental implants, seek professional help quickly to prevent complications.
By following these dos and don’ts, you can keep your implants healthy and strong for a lifetime. Remember, protecting your investment involves adopting healthy habits and maintaining regular dental care. If you need more guidance, consult your dentist for expert advice.
About the Practice
At Nu Dental Brick, Dr. Admasu Gizachew and Dr. Noah Mustafa are your caring and talented dental experts. They know how important a life of healthy smiles is and strive to meet the needs of every patient. They utilize state-of-the-art dental technology and practiced techniques to ensure that your dental implant treatment is efficient and painless. Call (732) 475-7535 to schedule a dental implant consultation or visit the website to explore other services they provide.