5 Ways to Take Care of Your Dental Implants

Here are 5 ways you can prioritize the care of your dental implants.

1. Think Soft and Sensitive For Oral Care Items

After you receive dental implants, you’ll want to switch over to a soft toothbrush and sensitive cleaning products if you haven’t already. These items will prevent any discomfort that may occur and allow for easier oral care. 

Nylon toothbrushes work great as the bristles are flexible and gentle on your dental implants. Toothbrushes containing hard bristles can scratch the surface of your implants. Any type of metal instrument used for cleaning should be avoided as well.

Try to also stay away from any toothpaste or mouthwash that is abrasive. Products of this nature can damage the natural enamel of your other teeth and intense flavors can result in an uncomfortable mouth feeling. 

2. Keep on Brushing and Flossing Daily

Even with dental implants, you should continue to brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss daily. In fact, it’s more important to floss after you have received dental implants due to possible plaque accumulation.

Yes, plaque can easily build up around your implants which can result in other oral hygiene issues, like gum disease. Luckily, there are many types of string floss and handheld flossers on the market that are targeted toward people with dental implants. 

Have trouble remembering to floss? Set a reminder on your phone or do it while watching tv so it doesn’t feel like much of a chore. 

3. Cut Tobacco Out of Your Life

In general, our dentists recommend that you avoid smoking for your overall health. It is especially vital to abstain from this habit when you have dental implants as smoking can interfere with the healing process following surgery.

Dental implants take about 6 months to heal fully so smoking during this sensitive time can be damaging. For the sake of your teeth, gums, and body, we urge you to quit smoking if possible.

4. Limit How Much You Eat Sticky or Hard Foods

Eating any food that is inherently sticky or hard can damage your dental implants soon after recovery. Furthermore, these types of foods can also be harmful to your natural teeth if consumed too regularly. 

While dental implants differ from dentures in that they allow for a less restricted diet, proper healing needs to occur first. After your dental implant procedure, try to eat soft foods so your mouth and jaw can rest. 

While you’re still healing, try to steer clear of:

• Caramel
• Ice
• Hard candies
• Gum
• Apples
• Crusty bread

Once you are fully healed and cleared by our dentists, you are welcome to eat your favorite foods again. 

5. Schedule Regular Appointments With Our Dentists

Dental implants will restore your smile but unfortunately, they will not absolve you of all future dental issues. Our dentists would still like to see you for routine teeth cleanings every 3-6 months to monitor your oral health. 

A visit to our Cadillac, MI, dental office will also provide you with an opportunity to bring up any concerns you might have regarding your implants. Our dentists will check on the condition of your dental implants and provide you with helpful advice on care techniques if needed.

Give Our Office a Call 

It’s important to treat your dental implants just like your natural teeth. Cleaning every part of your smile will only benefit you so it’s best to make the time for oral hygiene. If you have any questions regarding your restoration(s), don’t hesitate to ask our dentists in Cadillac, MI. Simply call LifeSmiles Dentistry at (231) 775-8281 to request an appointment.