Dental implants are an excellent way to restore your smile and confidence. But just like natural teeth, they need care and support to keep them strong, functional, and looking great for many years. If you recently received dental implants, continue reading. You’ll find some simple lifestyle changes you can easily implement to ensure your implants last as long as possible.
Brush and Floss Every Day
It sounds simple, but regular brushing and flossing are two of the most critical practices for keeping your implants healthy. While your restorations can’t decay like natural teeth, bacteria can still build up around them, causing gum inflammation or infections.
Keeping the area around your implants clean significantly reduces the risk of complications. So, brush gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush, and floss daily to remove harmful plaque and food particles.
Eat Implant-Friendly Foods
Crunchy, hard, or sticky snacks can put a ton of strain on your implants. Instead, strive for a balanced diet of fresh fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, and dairy products like cheese and yogurt.
Foods high in calcium and vitamin D help strengthen your jawbone, supporting your implants in the long run. In addition, try to limit sugary or acidic foods to prevent gum irritation or inflammation. You don’t have to drop them entirely, just use moderation and always practice oral care afterward.
Kick Tobacco and Vape Products to the Curb
Tobacco products like cigarettes and chewing tobacco as well as vape e-cigs are all terrible for dental implants. Smoking, whether tobacco or vape juice, reduces blood flow to your gums, which can slow down healing and increase the risk of implant failure.
Smokeless tobacco can irritate your gums and even cause infections around your implants. By cutting back on or quitting these practices altogether, you can give your implants a healthier oral environment to thrive.
Visit Your Dentist Regularly
Seeing your dentist at least once every six months is essential for keeping your implants in top shape. Routine checkups allow your dentist to catch small problems before they become serious issues. Professional cleanings also help remove hardened plaque around your implants, preventing infections.
These two services together are truly the best way to keep your oral health in check and prevent complications that lead to implant failure.
Your dental implants can last decades, or even a lifetime if you take care of them. By making even a few of these lifestyle adjustments, you can ensure your implants stay healthy, comfortable, and attractive for the long haul. If you need more guidance, reach out to your dentist. They can give you more personalized advice to keep you smiling for life!
About the Practice
At Salvaggio Dentistry, our exceptional team of dentists led by Dr. Joseph Salvaggio has helped countless patients achieve stronger, healthier smiles. Whether you need a simple filling or a complex procedure like a dental implant, we use the latest dental techniques and technology to create care that’s tailored to you. Call (289) 569-0721 to schedule a dental implant consultation with us or visit our website to learn more about our services.