Tooth loss can have a huge impact on your daily life. It affects your ability to eat, speak, and smile. Fortunately, dental implants offer a reliable and long-lasting solution for replacing missing teeth.
Implants are small titanium posts act as artificial tooth roots to provide a strong foundation for crowns, bridges, or dentures. With proper care, dental implants can last for decades. But they can fail if not maintained correctly.
If a dental implant fails, it may need to be removed and replaced. This can be both costly and time-consuming. That’s why it’s so important to take steps to protect your implants and keep them in great shape. In this blog, we’ll share tips on how to prevent dental implant failure and ensure your new smile stays healthy and strong.
How to Protect Your New Dental Implants
Dental implants are designed to be durable, but they still require care to stay in good condition. Here’s what you can do to keep your implants functioning properly:
1. Follow Your Dentist’s Aftercare Instructions
The dental implant process involves several steps, and each one requires careful attention to ensure success. Here’s what to expect and how to care for your implants during each phase:
- Initial Consultation: Your dentist will evaluate your jawbone and gum health to make sure you’re a good candidate for implants. If your jawbone isn’t strong enough, you may need a bone graft before proceeding.
- Implant Placement: During surgery, your dentist will place the titanium implant posts into your jawbone. After the procedure, follow your dentist’s aftercare instructions to promote healing. This includes keeping the surgical site clean, avoiding hard or sticky foods, and taking any prescribed medications.
- Healing Period: It can take three to six months for the implants to fuse with your jawbone, a process called osseointegration. During this time, be gentle with your mouth and avoid putting too much pressure on the implants.
- Attaching the Prosthetic Teeth: Once the implants have healed, your dentist will attach the crowns, bridges, or dentures. While this step is usually painless, let your dentist know if you experience any discomfort, swelling, or bleeding.
Throughout the process, attend all follow-up appointments so your dentist can monitor your progress. He will also be able to address any issues early, even if you don’t think you have any issues.
2. Maintain Good Oral Hygiene
One of the best things about dental implants is that they don’t require special care—just a consistent oral hygiene routine. Here’s how to keep your implants and natural teeth healthy:
- Brush Twice a Day: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste to clean your teeth and implants gently.
- Floss Daily: Flossing removes plaque and food particles from between your teeth and around the implants. Your dentist may recommend special floss or tools designed for implants.
- Rinse with Mouthwash: An antibacterial mouthwash can help reduce bacteria and keep your gums healthy.
- Visit Your Dentist Regularly: It’s important to get regular checkups and cleanings to keep your mouth healthy and catch potential issues early.
3. Avoid Habits That Can Damage Your Implants
Certain habits can increase the risk of implant failure. Here’s what to avoid:
- Smoking: Smoking slows down healing and can interfere with the implant’s ability to fuse with your jawbone. It also increases the risk of gum disease and lead to implant failure.
- Chewing Hard Objects: Avoid chewing on ice, pens, or other hard objects. You might damage your implants and chi them or your teeth.
- Grinding or Clenching Your Teeth: If you grind or clench your teeth, talk to your dentist about getting a night guard. Night guards protect your implants and teeth from excessive pressure.
4. Watch for Signs of Trouble
Even with proper care, problems can sometimes arise. Here are some signs that your implants may be failing:
- Severe pain or discomfort
- Swelling or bleeding around the implant site
- Looseness or movement of the implant
- Gum recession or inflammation
If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your dentist right away. Early intervention can often save an implant and prevent further issues.
Why Dental Implants Are Worth It
Dental implants are a great investment in your oral health and overall well-being. They look, feel, and function like natural teeth. The restoration gives you back the ability to eat, speak, and smile normally. They can last a lifetime, and are a cost-effective long-term solution for tooth loss.
By following your dentist’s aftercare instructions, maintaining good oral hygiene, and avoiding harmful habits, you can reduce the risk of implant failure and enjoy your new smile for years to come.
If you’re considering dental implants or want to make sure your existing implants stay in great shape, we’re here to help. Visit Dental Implants & Cosmetic Dentistry of Towson for personalized care to help you get and keep healthy implants.
Call us today at 410-324-2294 to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can help you protect your dental implants.