Dental implants can dramatically improve the quality of life for people who are missing teeth. They offer enhanced stability and durability, along with being a great match for the appearance of natural teeth. However, there are some adjustments to be made. Here’s what you should know about living with dental implants in Rochester, NY.
Make Sure to Keep Up With Follow-Up Appointments
Dental implant surgery is a serious oral procedure that requires follow-up appointments to ensure proper healing and the long-term stability of your dental implants. Your treatment plan will include scheduled appointments with your periodontist after the surgery happens. These are important because they help you avoid implant failure and allow your dentist to check for proper implant integration.
Professional cleanings are also a key part of these follow-up appointments. You’re at a higher risk of infection due to gum disease during the recovery period. The thorough cleanings remove plaque buildup around the crown or full-arch replacements, preventing complications such as peri-implantitis, which is an infection of the implant site.
Taking Care of Oral Hygiene While Healing
Whether you’ve gotten dental implants for a full smile replacement or just a single tooth, you’ll need to pay close attention to oral hygiene during recovery. Falling behind on daily dental care will increase bacteria levels in your mouth, putting you at a higher risk of peri-implantitis.
You should continue to clean your teeth and gum as directed by your periodontal team. You may need to change your routine while you heal. Strict home oral hygiene routine is crucial for the success of your implants for years to come.
Foods You Can Eat During Recovery
One of the most significant adjustments to make during your recovery period is your diet. You don’t want to irritate or strain the implant site, so it’s best to stick with soft foods. Scrambled eggs, mashed potatoes, applesauce, yogurt, and soup are all great examples.
Any foods that are hard, sticky, or chewy should be avoided. Nuts, caramel, and many types of candy could cause serious damage if they get lodged around the implant site. Meat and other tough foods can cause problems during early recovery due to the increased strain. Follow the dietary instructions given to you by your periodontal team.
Making Long-Term Dietary Adjustments
Even after your recovery is complete, some dietary adjustments should be made for the long-term. These are typically the same changes you would make with a dental crown or other restorations. Chewing hard foods such as popcorn kernels, candy, and ice should be avoided as they may chip or crack the implant crown, as can using your teeth as a tool for opening packaging.
You can support improved oral health by including a diverse range of foods in your diet. Leafy greens, dairy products, and lean proteins are effective options to maintain overall oral health. A balanced diet ensures that you have all the nutrients needed for healthy gums.
Watch Out for Harmful Habits
While dental implants have a lifetime survival rate of 97.1%, several risk factors can lead to a variety of complications.[1] For instance, smoking and other tobacco use greatly increase your risk of implant failure and should be avoided. The reduced blood flow to the gums and impact on your immune system mean that smoking can lead to gum disease and possible implant failure.
Chewing ice and biting nails can also damage your implants. If you engage in any sports activity or grind your teeth during sleep, you should consider a mouthguard to protect your implants.
Dental Implants in Rochester, NY
Are you concerned about the impact tooth loss has on your life? If so, getting dental implants in Rochester, NY, could be an effective solution. When you have the proper treatment plan in place and keep up with ongoing care, you can enjoy improved function, appearance, and oral health. Reach out today to find out more about the implant process and whether dental implants might be right for you.
