Dental implants are the closest to natural teeth when it comes to restorative options for your smile. They look and function like natural teeth, and like your original teeth, they need ongoing care and maintenance. Knowing how to personally care for your dental implants can help protect the investment in your smile and maintain your oral health.
Compared to dentures or dental bridges, dental implants are more comfortable and offer improved function. Not only do they look natural, but they can also improve your oral health and facial appearance. The implant can stimulate bone growth and help maintain the bone density in your jaw, helping keep your face looking more youthful. However, these perks do not come without responsibility. There are steps you need to take to make sure your dental implants last – if you keep up with home and dental office care, you can help your dental implants last a lifetime.
Daily Oral Hygiene for Dental Implants
In most aspects, your dental implants are much like your natural teeth when it comes to daily oral hygiene. Twice a day you should brush your dental implants and other teeth, especially after meals. You should also floss between your teeth twice a day, removing any food debris or plaque. There are also antimicrobial rinses your dentist may recommend for controlling bacteria and infection as part of your daily oral hygiene routine. Your dentist may suggest specialized inter-dental toothbrushes or floss, depending on your type of dental implant.
It is imperative that daily personal care is performed on dental implants to prevent infection. Plaque and bacteria that can cause gum disease are detrimental to all teeth, but especially with implants. Any type of infection can lead to failure of the implant, which can be costly. Not only could you lose your dental implants, you may not be able to have them replaced if the infection is too severe.
Professional Cleaning for Dental Implants
On top of routine home oral hygiene, your dental implants will need routine cleanings at your dental office. A dental hygienist can remove any accumulated plaque or tartar from both dental implants and natural teeth to protect your oral health. Most people with dental implants will need at least two cleanings per year at their dentist to maintain the best health for their smile and to help extend the life of their implants and natural teeth.
At Mission Bend Family Dentistry, we offer excellent care for all your teeth, including your dental implants. Contact our clinic in Richmond, TX, to schedule your next checkup and cleaning to care for your smile and overall health.