Implant dentistry provides patients with the chance to replace missing teeth, in a much more permeant way than dentures allow. With titanium posts and a crown on top, dental implants look, feel and act like your real teeth. And, just like your natural teeth, you also need to take care of your implants. Just because they're artificial doesn't mean that they don't need your attention. Check out what you need to do to make sure that your implants (and your mouth) stay healthy.
Brushing and Flossing
You already brush and floss your teeth. Right? Hopefully you do, as this is the first step you need to take when making sure you have a healthy mouth. Keep your brushing up after your get your implants. Think of the implant as a regular tooth – which requires twice a day brushing care. Choose a soft-bristled brush, making sure to use it for at least two minutes twice a day. You can also brush your teeth (and implants) after meals to remove food or debris that may build up. Along with brushing, floss at least twice each day. This keeps your gums and the area around the implant healthy.
Pro Cleaning
Yes, cleaning your teeth at home is essential. But, that's not the only way to care for your implants. Your dentist and hygienist can provide a professional-level cleaning that you won't get with just your toothbrush and a string of floss. Of course, this doesn't mean that you should stop the home cleaning in favor of a professional one. The two need to work together, giving you the best chance possible at having healthy dental implants. Depending on your dentist's opinion and your individual situation, you may need to go in for an office cleaning anywhere from every few months to once a year.
Healthy Diet
Your gum health is essential all of the time – but, especially when you have implants. Your implants are anchored in the jaw bone, and sit in your gums. Caring for your gums can help your whole mouth to stay in its best shape. Along with brushing and flossing, your diet can contribute to healthy gums. The proteins in milk products may help to neutralize acids caused by bacteria in your mouth. Along with milk, cheese or sugar-free yogurt, leafy greens (such as spinach or kale) can also boost your mouth's health. Along with a punch of vitamins, these foods may stimulate extra saliva production as you chew. This washes away dome of the plaque bacteria that forms around your teeth, gum line and implants.
Dental implants might not have the same make-up as natural teeth, but they require the same kind of care. From cleaning (at home and at the dentist's office) to your overall diet, keeping up with your implant care is an easy way to make sure your smile stays bright and healthy.
Share8 February 2017
