2 Ways To Protect Your Dental Implants
Dental implants are a terrific option for those looking for a permanent replacement for missing teeth. While dental implants provide many benefits, they also require some special care to ensure that they last for many years. This article discusses two ways to protect dental implants and keep them in good condition.
Watch What You Eat
While dental implants are very strong, they can be damaged by certain foods and drinks. Watch what you eat and drink to protect your implants and keep them looking their best.
For starters, you might want to avoid hard foods. Biting into hard foods can damage the metal post of an implant. Hard candy, nuts, and ice can put too much pressure on an implant and cause it to break or loosen. If you have implants, avoid these hard foods and stick to softer options.
Chewing gum can also damage dental implants. When you chew gum, the sticky gum can adhere to the implant and pull it out of place. In addition, chewing gum can trigger the release of plaque-forming bacteria around the implant, which can lead to infection. If you have to chew gum, choose sugarless gum that does not stick to your teeth.
Acidic foods can erode dental implants and make them more susceptible to infection. Avoid citrus fruits, tomatoes, vinegar, and carbonated beverages to protect your implants. If you eat or drink acidic foods, brush your teeth afterward to remove the acid from your mouth.
By following these simple tips, you can keep your dental implants in good condition and avoid damage.
See Your Dentist Regularly
Dental implants are a great way to improve your smile and oral health. But like all dental work, they require proper care to stay healthy and look their best. That's why you need to attend all your scheduled dentist appointments.
During these appointments, your dentist can examine your implants to ensure they function properly. They can also check for any signs of infection or damage and clean the implants to remove any plaque or tartar buildup. These regular cleanings are essential for preventing gum disease, which can cause implant failure.
In addition to cleaning, your dentist may adjust or replace your implant abutments (the small metal posts that connect the implant to the artificial tooth). This procedure is usually only necessary if there is a problem with fit or function. But by attending all your scheduled appointments, you can be sure that your dental implants are in good condition and will last many years.