Dental implants are a popular choice for those who have lost a tooth or teeth due to injury, disease, or decay. They provide a durable and natural-looking replacement that can last for many years when cared for properly. However, it is important to know what not to do with Carmel, NY dental implants in your mouth to ensure they stay healthy and functional.
- Don’t Neglect Your Oral Hygiene
First and foremost, don’t neglect your oral hygiene. Even though implants aren’t susceptible to cavities like natural teeth, the surrounding gums and bones are still vulnerable to bacterial infections. So, regular brushing and flossing are essential to keep the implants and their surroundings clean and plaque-free. You should also consider using an antimicrobial mouthwash for further protection.
- Avoid Hard and Sticky Foods
While dental implants are designed to withstand normal chewing forces, they aren’t invincible. So, hard foods like ice, hard candies, and bones can potentially damage the implant. Similarly, sticky foods can exert undue pressure and dislodge the implant over time. So, it’s best to avoid these types of food or consume them with caution.
- Don’t Smoke or Use Tobacco Products
Smoking and using tobacco products can significantly impact the success of dental implants. These substances interfere with blood flow to the gums, hindering the healing process post-surgery. In addition, they also increase the risk of infection and can lead to implant failure. So, if you’re a smoker, quitting before getting implants and maintaining that decision afterward can greatly improve your chances of a successful procedure.
- Do Not Skip Dental Checkups
Regular dental visits are vital for maintaining healthy dental implants. Your dentist can monitor the condition of your implants, gums, and jawbone, and catch any potential issues early during your regular dental checkups. So, skipping regular checkups could lead to unnoticed problems that could compromise your implant’s health and longevity.
- Don’t Grind or Clench Your Teeth
Teeth grinding or clenching, also known as bruxism, can put a lot of strain on your dental implants. Over time, this can lead to implant failure. So, if you have a habit of grinding or clenching your teeth, especially during sleep, talk to your dentist about possible solutions like wearing a night guard.
- Avoid DIY Dentistry
You should never attempt to adjust or repair your dental implants yourself. If you think something is wrong with your implant, then contact your dentist right away. Remember, DIY fixes can cause more harm than good and may result in needing more extensive and expensive repairs down the line.