When you need teeth replaced due to an accident, illness, or tooth decay, dental implants are the route that many people take. They are sturdy and can last a lifetime if they’re taken care of properly. If you don’t take adequate care of your dental implants, you may be setting yourself up for further dental problems down the road. If you are considering dental implants, here is what you’ll need to know about dental implants and gum care:
Why Should I Treat Dental Implants Like Natural Teeth?
According to the American Academy of Periodontology, dental implants need to be treated like natural teeth because they are susceptible to the same issues. They can become infected and can even become loose if they are not taken care of properly. This can lead to dental implants needing to be removed and replaced. Periodontal disease can also develop, leading to more issues with your oral health and even your general health.
Many people end up needing dental implants because they lost their teeth due to periodontal disease or another illness. Dental implants can not only restore the function of the teeth and mouth but can also improve a person’s smile and appearance.
A periodontist performs dental implant procedures right in their office, usually within a few visits. A titanium post is implanted into the jawbone beneath the gum line, and then an abutment is placed on top before the crown is positioned. The procedure results in implants that look and function like natural teeth.
Tips on How to Care for Dental Implants and Gum Care
You should care for your dental implants much as you would care for your natural teeth. Here are some simple things you can do every day to keep your dental implants functioning for a lifetime:
Brush At Least Twice a Day
Brush your dental implants at least twice a day. Floss gently, as well, to keep the gums around the implant healthy.
Use a Soft Toothbrush
When you brush, choose a toothbrush with soft bristles. Soft, small bristles can make it easier to get to those hard-to-reach areas in your mouth without hurting your gums.
Choose Low-Abrasive Tartar Control Toothpaste
Choosing a tartar control toothpaste that is also low-abrasive is crucial because you need to continue to keep tartar away but don’t want to risk ruining the adjacent teeth. If you’re not sure what type of toothpaste falls into this category, your periodontist can make recommendations.
Avoid Food & Drinks with Too Much Sugar
Although your dental implants cannot decay like natural teeth, they can still get plaque build-up, which can lead to damage in the surrounding gum.
Avoid Eating Popcorn
Pieces of popcorn that get stuck around the implant can lead to severe bone loss around the implant to the point of the implant having to be replaced.
Make Regular Appointments for Cleanings & Check-ups
It’s recommended to have your teeth cleaned and checked by your periodontist at a minimum every three to six months interval, depending on your gum health. Your implant needs to be checked once a year by the periodontist to make sure the bone and gum are healthy and stable.
When you take good care of your dental implants and gums, you not only extend the lifetime of the implants, but you also help to prevent gum infection. If you believe your dental implants are at risk for a problem, it’s essential to visit your periodontist right away to get a proper check-up. The sooner an issue is detected, the sooner it can be treated, and the less damage it will cause.
Contact Dental Implants & Periodontal Health of Rochester for an Appointment
If you would like more information on dental implants in Rochester, contact Dr. Zahavi at Dental Implants & Periodontal Health of Rochester. Dr. Zahavi has extensive experience with dental implants and can explain the 3D CAT Scan technology he uses to get the best outcomes. Call the office today to schedule your consultation.
