One of the most convenient benefits of dental implants is that they don’t require any special maintenance. As a tooth replacement that looks, acts, and feels just like natural teeth, patients can achieve a lifetime of oral health success with dental implant treatment. To ensure that your restoration lasts and to help increase its longevity, our Farmington, NM, dentists have created a comprehensive guide to caring for dental implants.
Basic Oral Hygiene Habits
Good oral hygiene is essential for maintaining the health and longevity of your dental implants. Oral hygien habits to follow include brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing daily, and using an antiseptic mouthwash to kill bacteria and freshen your breath.
Brushing Your Teeth
One of the most effective ways to maintain dental implants is by brushing your teeth twice a day. When brushing your teeth, use a soft-bristled toothbrush and toothpaste specifically formulated for implants. Make sure to brush all surfaces of your teeth, including the tops, sides, chewing surfaces, and gum lines.
Flossing
Flossing is crucial for removing plaque and food particles from between your teeth and around your dental implants. Use a floss threader or special dental floss designed for dental implants to make flossing around the implant post easier.
One of the best methods for flossing is known as a Waterpik. It can reach difficult spots and keep the gum line clean.
Rinsing Your Mouth
Rinsing your mouth between meals is an essential step in maintaining the health of your dental implants. It helps remove food particles and bacteria that may be left behind after eating, which can lead to plaque and tartar buildup around the implant post.
Use an antiseptic mouthwash specifically formulated for dental implants. Swish the mouthwash around your mouth for 30 seconds to a minute, making sure to reach all areas of your mouth, including the implant site. Spit the mouthwash out and rinse your mouth with water.
Routine Visits to the Dentist
Regular dental checkups and cleanings are essential for maintaining excellent oral health and keeping your dental implants in pristine condition. Your dentist will examine your implants to check for any signs of wear or damage and clean and polish them to remove plaque and tartar buildup.
Frequently Asked Questions
After receiving your dental implants, you’ll want to continue to visit your dentist once every six months. By maintaining regular dental visits, you’ll ensure your dental implants stay in excellent shape along with your surrounding natural teeth.
Most dentists recommend using a toothbrush and toothpaste specifically formulated for dental implants, as they’re designed to clean and protect the implant post and surrounding tissue without causing damage. Your dentist will recommend the best toothbrush and toothpaste for your specific case.
Dental implants can last for many years, often a lifetime with proper care and maintenance. However, the visible portion may need to be replaced after 20 years. By maintaining regular visits to your dentist, you can help increase the longevity of your porcelain crown or other implant restoration.
Ensure That Your Dental Implants Last a Lifetime
With proper care, dental implants are a life-long solution to missing teeth. If you have any questions about dental implant care, contact our Farmington dentists. We’re more than happy to answer any questions you may have.