Taking Care of Your Dental Implants

Dental implants are a popular treatment for patients who have lost one or more teeth as a result of disease, decay, or physical trauma. If you have been fitted with dental implants in Kendall, it is important to ensure that you keep your implants in good condition. Implants are not vulnerable to caries, also known as cavities. Without sufficient aftercare, however, the area around implants can become infected. This process is known as peri-implantitis. Untreated, peri-implantitis can cause irritation or inflammation of the gums and may lead to more serious infection. In severe cases, the patient may suffer bone loss. Luckily, there are a few simple steps you can take to ensure that your implants remain clean and that the surrounding area stays free from infection.

Develop a Good Oral Hygiene Routine

You should care for your dental implants by following a healthy dental hygiene routine. Brush at least twice a day, cleaning the tooth surfaces and slanting your brush to clean the gum line. Choose a soft-bristled brush and replace the brush or brush heads every three months or as soon as they become worn. You should also floss at least once daily. Ask your dentist for advice on how best to clean your implants.

Schedule Regular Dental Check-Ups

Make sure you schedule regular visits to your dentist to monitor the condition of your dental implants. The dentist will check to make sure that your implant remains firmly in place. If the screws securing the abutment or crown part of your implant loosen over time, your dentist can adjust them. The dentist will also make sure that the crown or replacement tooth remains securely and comfortably in place. Inform your dental practitioner if you experience any changes to the position, feel, or functioning of your implants. The dentist will also take periodic X-rays of your mouth to monitor bone levels around the implant. He or she will also make sure the adjoining teeth and gums are healthy.