Are you considering getting dental implants or have you already had them? Dental implants are a strong and long-lasting substitute for lost teeth, but they need to be maintained just like natural teeth. Although they don’t require much maintenance, there are a few things you should do to keep them looking and working at their best. This guide will help you understand how to take care of your implants for many years to come, regardless of whether you’re new to implant restorations in SW Calgary or you just want to learn more.
Why Dental Implants Are Different from Natural Teeth
Dental implants are made of titanium posts that are placed into your jawbone to act as tooth roots. On top of these posts is a crown, bridge, or denture to give you a natural-looking smile. Implants are impervious to cavities, but if the surrounding bone or gums deteriorate, issues could still occur.
A dentist in SW Calgary can help you understand the right way to care for your implants so they last a lifetime.
Do Implants Need More Care Than Natural Teeth?
Maintaining dental implants is largely the same as maintaining natural teeth; routine brushing, flossing, and examinations are essential. However, implants do require additional care due to:
- Food particles may become lodged near the implant’s base.
- Bacteria and plaque can cause peri-implantitis, or gum infections.
- The restoration may be harmed by excessive force from grinding or biting.
The best way to safeguard your investment is to maintain proper oral hygiene.
Daily Maintenance Tips for Dental Implants
Here are simple steps you can follow to keep your implants in top shape:
- Use a toothbrush with soft bristles to brush twice a day.
- To prevent scratching the crown’s surface, use toothpaste that isn’t abrasive.
- Use water flossers or implant-safe floss every day.
- To lessen the accumulation of bacteria, rinse with antibacterial mouthwash.
- Steer clear of chewing hard foods like hard candy or ice.
Your implants can last for decades without experiencing significant problems if you take good care of them.
Are Dental Implants Painful to Maintain?
If you’re wondering, are dental implants painful to take care of, the answer is usually no. Once your implants have healed after surgery, cleaning them should feel just like cleaning your natural teeth. You might notice some mild sensitivity if you have new implants or gum tenderness, but this typically goes away quickly.
Professional Checkups for Implant Dentistry
Even with perfect home care, implants still need regular professional attention. Implant dentistry focuses on not just placing implants but also keeping them healthy for the long term. During your checkups, your dentist will:
- Check the stability of your implant
- Clean hard-to-reach areas around the restoration
- Take X-rays if needed to monitor bone health.
- Make adjustments if your bite has changed.
Most patients require these visits every 6 months, but your dentist might recommend more frequent appointments if you have a history of gum problems.
Why Gum Health is Vital for Dental Implants
Just as important as the implant itself are the surrounding bone and gums. The implant may come loose if the bone deteriorates or the gums get infected. Proper oral hygiene and regular visits to a dentist near you will help keep these tissues healthy and avoid complications.
Common Mistakes to Avoid with Dental Implants
To extend the lifespan of your implants, stay away from:
- Bacteria can rapidly accumulate around the base of the crown if flossing is neglected.
- Using toothbrushes with hard bristles that can cause scratches
- Smoking raises the risk of implant failure and slows healing.
- Ignoring bleeding or swelling as indicators of gum inflammation
Early detection of minor issues can help you avoid later, more involved (and costly) treatments.
What If a Problem Occurs?
You might sometimes get an odd bite, a loose implant, or gum irritation. Schedule an appointment with your dentist right away. Many implant issues can be resolved more easily with early treatment. Sometimes cleaning the area surrounding the implant or making a minor crown adjustment is all that is required.
The Bottom Line on Implant Care
Dental implants near you are designed to be low-maintenance, but they’re not “no-maintenance.” Treating them like natural teeth—with a bit of extra care—will help you avoid problems and keep your smile strong. A mix of good daily habits and professional checkups is the ideal method for long-term success.
Book Your Implant Care Appointment Today
Our objective at Trinity Hills Dental is to help you maintain the long-term health of your implants. Our kind staff will provide you with the resources and attention you require to preserve your smile, regardless of how long you’ve had implants.
Book your appointment today and keep your dental implants looking and feeling their best.