Dental implants are a great way to improve your smile and regain confidence. Cosmetic issues are one of the biggest reasons people are dissatisfied with their teeth. For some people, that is a big deal and something that diminishes their confidence or makes them less socially gregarious. Dental implants are an easy solution. But simply getting a dental implant is step one. Taking care of dental implants ensures your smile remains top-notch for years to come.
At Dental Designs of Maryland – Hanover, MD, we can answer all your questions about dental implant services. Call us at 443.733.6879.
Tips for Taking Care of Dental Implants
Taking care of dental implants is not hard. Nor does it require much of you. Yet ignoring dental implant care can result in needing dental implants fixed or replaced. Taking care of dental implants is as simple as following these seven tips.
1. Use a Soft-Bristle Brush
One of the biggest mistakes people make in dental hygiene is using a hard-bristle brush. The misconception that a firmer bristle will get your teeth cleaner remains pervasive. Soft-bristle brushes work just as well and are gentler on the gums and teeth. Moreover, they do not scratch dental implants. The sooner you switch to a soft-bristle brush, the better off your teeth and implants will be.
2. Avoid Abrasive Oral Products
Another must of dental implant care is to avoid abrasive products. Always purchase sensitive toothpaste and mouthwash. You may also want to avoid stronger flavors of these products. The flavoring does nothing to improve your dental hygiene and may leave your mouth feeling uncomfortable.
3. Floss
Flossing is the next most important thing for oral health after brushing twice daily. The vast majority of Americans do not floss daily. If you have a dental implant, it is even more critical that you do not fall into that category. Some types of floss are even made specifically for people who have dental implants. If you have trouble keeping up your flossing routine, consider implementing these handy steps:
- Set an alarm on your phone for your daily floss
- Keep floss in your car or purse to take advantage of unexpected downtime
- Incentivize flossing by rewarding yourself when you do it
- Floss while you watch tv or listen to music
- Use a Waterpik to make flossing easier
4. Avoid Candy and Other Hard Foods
Sticky, sugary, hard foods should be avoided when taking care of your dental implant. Candy is the biggest offender, not the only culprit that meets those criteria. Other foods that are not bad for you but should probably be avoided after dental implants include raw carrots, apples, crusty bread, dried fruit, and hardshell tacos. If you do eat these foods when you have a dental implant, be extra careful to chew away from the implant.
5. Do Not Drink or Smoke
Abstaining from smoking and drinking is good for your health in general. It is even more helpful in taking care of dental implants. That’s because both substances slow down the body’s ability to heal. You likely won’t have any pain from your dental implant for more than a few days after the procedure. However, it can take up to six months for the area to fully heal and for your body to accept the implant. Drinking and smoking can slow down that healing process and even jeopardize the integrity of the dental implant.
6. Continue Normal Dental Visits
Don’t get a dental implant and then ghost your dentist. Continue visiting them twice per year to ensure your implant is looking good. Your dentist will be able to head off any potential issues and give you additional tips for taking care of dental implants if what you are doing is insufficient.
7. Prioritize Aftercare
The first 24 hours after getting a dental implant are critical. Dental implant care begins the moment you leave the appointment where you got the dental implant. Swelling and pain are expected during the first day after getting a dental implant. Eat only soft foods, use an ice pack as directed by your dentist, take any pain medications they prescribe, avoid rinsing your mouth, and do not engage in a strenuous activity the day after your dental implant.
Get Dental Implants at Dental Designs of Maryland – Hanover, MD
Are you considering getting a dental implant? Do your teeth have imperfections that keep you from smiling throughout the day? Consider getting a dental implant through Dental Designs of Maryland – Hanover, MD. Call 443.733.6879 to learn more about the dental implants we provide.