Dos and Don’ts of Caring for Dental Implants

If you’re ready to treat your tooth loss permanently with dental implants, you’ve made a great choice. As the most predictable and reliable method of replacing missing teeth, your new smile can last for a lifetime with the right aftercare. Don’t let simple mistakes compromise your investment. Here are the dos and don’ts of caring for dental implants.

Do Follow Your Implant Recovery Instructions

Although any pain or tenderness will subside within a few days, it can take several months for your bone to heal. It’s important to follow your dentist’s aftercare instructions to ensure nothing compromises the healing process, like eating soft foods, keeping your mouth clean, and maintaining your follow-up appointments.

Do Keep Your Mouth Clean

Dental implants can’t get cavities, but you still need to brush and floss your teeth. Brush at least twice per day, if not after every meal. Floss around your dental implants and between your teeth daily. A waterflosser can clean the most difficult-to-reach areas to ensure no harmful bacteria or food particles are lingering in your mouth. Finish your routine with an antimicrobial mouthwash.

Do Choose the Right Oral Hygiene Products

Only use nonabrasive dental products, like a soft-bristled toothbrush. Don’t use any whitening toothpaste because it can scratch your restorations. With the right oral hygiene products, you will keep your mouth clean and your new smile looking its best.

Do Visit Your Dentist Regularly

Visit your dentist every 6 months for a cleaning and checkup, even if you don’t have any current concerns. They will remove any harmful plaque buildup and examine your mouth to ensure your smile is healthy. If they find anything concerning, like gum inflammation, they can provide the quick care you need to prevent dental implant failure.

Don’t Eat Hard or Chewy Foods

Hard or chewy foods will put extra wear and tear on your dental implants, which may shorten their life expectancy. If you can’t resist a juicy steak, cut it into small pieces to make it easier to chew.

Don’t Ignore the Signs of Implant Failure

The early warning signs of dental implant failure may not seem alarming, but with no treatment, they can lead to a big problem. Contact your dentist at the first sign of redness, swelling, or tenderness near the implant. If you develop any pain or the implant feels loose, schedule an appointment with your dentist immediately.

Don’t Put Any Inedible Objects in Your Mouth

Don’t chew on your fingernails or any other objects, like pencils. Never use your teeth as tools to tear open a chip bag or loosen a bottle lid.

Don’t Smoke or Drink Alcohol

Tobacco and heavy alcohol drinking can significantly increase your risk of dental implant failure.

With a solid oral hygiene routine and good habits at home, your dental implants can last for a lifetime.

About Dr. Christina Church

Dr. Church achieved her dental degree from the Medical College of Georgia and has continued her education in advanced services, like dental implants, TMJ dysfunction, and Invisalign. She combines the art and science of dentistry to help each patient achieve their best smile. Request an appointment through our website or call (843) 380-6688.