Dental implants are one of the best tooth replacement options available today—strong, secure, and designed to last for decades. But like natural teeth, they still need attention and care. If you’ve invested in implants, the way you treat them every day makes all the difference! Continue reading to find a few simple lifestyle changes you can make to help your implants truly go the distance.
Brush and Floss Daily
You might think implants don’t need brushing since they’re not “real” teeth, but they absolutely do! Plaque can still build up around your gumline, leading to inflammation or even implant failure over time. So, brush twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush, floss before going to bed, and consider using a non-alcoholic mouthwash for the best results.
Kick Smoking and Vaping
Smoking interferes with healing after implant surgery and increases your risk of infection. It also reduces blood flow to your gums, which is critical for keeping your implants stable. And while vaping has been marketed as a safer alternative, the American Dental Association suggests it can still affect oral health. If you want your implants to last, quitting is a smart move for your whole body, not just your smile.
Solve Any Grinding Issues
Do you often clench or grind your teeth? This is a condition known as bruxism, which puts a ton of pressure on both natural teeth and implants. Over time, it can even cause implant components to loosen or crack!
The best way to combat this is with a night guard from your dentist. However, even doing some simple yoga or breathing exercises may help reduce your symptoms and save your smile.
Watch What You Eat
Just like your natural teeth, dental implants can benefit from a balanced diet. Crunchy fruits and veggies help clean your teeth as you chew, while calcium-rich foods strengthen the bone around your implant fixture. You can also count on lean proteins to provide the necessary building blocks for your gums and other oral tissues to recover.
Just avoid hard candies, popcorn kernels, or chewing ice as they can damage implants as easily as regular teeth.
Keep Up with Dental Visits
Along with the other changes listed above, your implants will also need consistent professional checkups. These visits allow your dentist to monitor the bone around your implant, check your gums for signs of infection, and professionally clean areas you can’t reach at home.
Dental implants are a big step toward restoring your smile and your confidence. By brushing, quitting tobacco and vaping, watching what you eat, and visiting your dentist regularly, you’ll set your implants up for long-term success. They’re built to last, especially with a little help from you!
About the Practice
Need more smile support for your dental implants? Dr. Suzanne Najjar and Dr. Caitlyn Le can help! Our team at Amaze Dental provides professional care, expert advice, and regular checkups to protect your dental investments. Whatever your goals, we’ll help you reach for the stars with a smile. Call (972) 230-1100 to schedule a dental implant consultation with us or visit our website to see a full menu of other services.