Dental implants are a popular and effective solution for replacing missing teeth. They offer the look, feel, and function of natural teeth, providing a confident smile and improved oral health. However, just like your natural teeth, dental implants require regular care and maintenance to ensure their longevity and optimal performance. You should also not miss your regular dental visits with a dentist near the South Loop in Downtown Chicago.
Here are five essential tips for easy maintenance of your dental implants.
- Brush Regularly with a Soft Bristled Toothbrush
One of the simplest yet most crucial steps in maintaining your dental implants is regular brushing. It is recommended to brush your teeth twice a day, including your implants. However, when it comes to implants, using a soft-bristled toothbrush is key. In fact, hard or medium bristles can potentially damage the surface of the implants. Only a soft-bristled toothbrush ensures gentle cleaning, effectively removing plaque and food particles without causing any harm to your implants.
- Avoid Abrasive Toothpaste
The type of toothpaste you use also plays a significant role in the care of your dental implants. Remember, some toothpaste formulas contain abrasive ingredients that can scratch the surface of your implants, leading to wear and tear over time. Therefore, it’s best to avoid such toothpaste. Instead, opt for a non-abrasive toothpaste that can clean your teeth and implants effectively without causing any damage.
- Floss Daily
Flossing is an integral part of oral hygiene that should not be overlooked, especially when you have dental implants. In fact, flossing daily helps to remove food particles and plaque from areas where your toothbrush can’t reach, such as in between your teeth and around your implants. This also greatly reduces the risk of gum disease and implant failure.
- Practice Good Oral Hygiene
Aside from regular brushing and flossing, maintaining good oral hygiene involves several other practices. For instance, rinsing your mouth with an antimicrobial mouthwash can help kill bacteria and prevent infections. In addition, it’s also important to maintain a healthy diet and limit the intake of sugary foods and drinks that can lead to tooth decay. Moreover, regular dental check-ups are also crucial to monitor the condition of your implants and address any potential issues early.
- Avoid Smoking
Smoking is known to have numerous negative effects on oral health, and this includes the health of your dental implants. In fact, smoking can hinder the healing process following implant surgery, increase the risk of infection, and lead to implant failure in the long run. Therefore, if you’re a smoker, it’s highly recommended to quit smoking for the success and longevity of your dental implants.