Many people choose dental implants to replace missing teeth. While dental implants can last a lifetime, you must have healthy gums before getting a dental implant. That means implants and gum care go hand in hand, even after surgery.
If you had receding gums or periodontal disease before implant surgery, the problem doesn’t magically disappear. You must develop good oral hygiene habits to protect against advancing gum disease, which can lead to implant failure.
Post-Implant Gum Disease
A dental implant does not make you immune to gum disease. Without proper hygiene and routine dental care, you can still develop adverse oral health conditions, like peri-implantitis.
Similar to periodontal disease, peri-implantitis is an inflammation of the soft tissue in your mouth.[1] However, it specifically affects the gum tissue around the dental implant. This becomes an issue because you need healthy and strong gums and bones to support the implant.
Risk factors for developing peri-implantitis include:
- Smoking
- Poor implant placement
- Poorly fitting restorations
- Diabetes
- A suppressed immune system
- Chewing on hard things can put too much pressure on the implant and might cause bone loss around it
Keeping appointments with your periodontist is necessary so they can evaluate the implant for potential problems. Missing these check-ups means minor problems could worsen without being noticed.
Knowing the Signs of Peri-Implantitis
Routine check-ups will allow your periodontist to evaluate the status of your implant, but knowing the signs of peri-implantitis is beneficial to any patient. Be on the lookout for:
- A bad taste in the mouth
- A swollen or red gum line around the implant
- Pain or tenderness near the site
- Pus
- Loosening of the implant
Patients with advanced stages of peri-implantitis may also have abscesses or bone loss.
Dental Implants and Gum Care to Prevent Gum Disease
In some cases, gum disease results from genetics. However, most patients can actively reduce their risk of developing gum disease and extend the lifespan of their implant by following these tips.
Routine Brushing
Caring for your implants is similar to caring for your natural teeth. Brush twice a day for at least four full minutes. Soft-bristled brushes are best because stiff bristles can damage gum tissue and the artificial tooth on the implant.
Flossing
Flossing should be part of everyone’s daily routine. It’s recommended that you use floss designed explicitly for dental implants. You may need to incorporate a floss threader to help you reach difficult areas. Use gentle pressure when flossing around the gum line.
Taking Prescription Medication
If you develop gum disease symptoms around your implant, your periodontist may prescribe medication to help treat it. Take any antibiotics as directed and finish the medication.
Maintaining a Healthy Diet
Eating a balanced diet can help prevent gum disease. Fill your plate with foods that don’t have much sugar or acid. Foods that are very sugary or acidic can lead to problems in your mouth that might make the implant fail.
Avoiding Tobacco Products
Tobacco use has been connected to many systemic and oral health problems. Smoking also increases the risk of implant failure.
Scheduling Preventive Care Appointments
Do not miss your regular check-ups to ensure your dental implants last long. These appointments help remove any plaque or tartar your toothbrush didn’t catch, preventing more significant problems before they start.
Implants and Gum Care Specialists
Getting dental implants can be a necessary step in restoring your oral health. Maintaining your gums and surrounding bones is vital to ensure your implant lasts, allowing you to live a normal lifestyle.
Contact Dental Implants & Periodontal Health of Rochester at 585-685-2005 to learn more about dental implants and gum care. Our gums and implant specialists have the expertise to help your implants last a lifetime.
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