Dental implants are known to last decades, if not a lifetime. This is what sets them apart from other similar solutions, including dentures and dental bridges. However, just because they can last many years doesn’t mean problems cannot occur. Without taking precautions, dental implants can fail. To avoid this, keep reading to learn what lifestyle changes you should make to help your new smile last longer.
Adopt a Solid Oral Hygiene Routine
Although dental implants cannot develop decay, they can succumb to gum disease and damage. Whether it’s a single tooth or an entire arch that is replaced by these prosthetics, you need to stay on top of your oral hygiene routine.
Regular brushing twice daily for two minutes, using fluoride, flossing between teeth at least once a day, and rinsing with an ADA-approved mouthwash are essential. These habits remove harmful bacteria that can cause decay and gum inflammation, which can lead to an infection or peri-implantitis, which affects dental implants.
Incorporate Healthier Foods Into Your Diet
Diets that consist predominantly of sugars and starches are more susceptible to tooth decay and gum disease. If an infection forms in the soft oral tissues around your implants, it can lead to bone loss, which can cause your new teeth to fail.
By incorporating healthier foods into your diet, such as leafy greens, lean proteins, fresh fruits and vegetables, etc., you improve your chances of maintaining a healthier oral microbiome (mouth). As a result, your dental implants will be more likely to stay in place.
Give Up Smoking
Smoking and the use of tobacco products increase your chances of dental implant failure significantly. It hinders your immune system, making it difficult to ward off infection and heal properly. Since implants require integration with the jawbone through osseointegration, smoking can prevent this process from being successful.
You can ask your dentist or local physician about cessation resources to help you quit so your investment in dental implants remains worthwhile.
See Your Dentist for Regular Checkups and Cleanings
Your dentist is your ally, and they want to ensure your new teeth remain in place for as long as possible. This can be achieved by keeping up with your biannual dental checkups and cleanings. These visits allow your dentist to closely examine your real and artificial teeth and check for any damage, infection, or other similar issues.
By catching problems early, you can avoid costlier and more time-consuming procedures in the future.
Making these essential lifestyle changes will allow you to enjoy your new smile for much longer, so don’t wait. Start the process now so that you continue to see a beautiful set of teeth in the future.
About the Author
Dental implants remain an important service among patients battling tooth loss. With Dr. Mark Makram’s help, you can enjoy life with a new set of teeth, ones that will last decades or more. With years of advanced training and experience, Dr. Makram can perform the start-to-finish process in-house, so you never need to worry about a referral. If you are considering dental implants, visit our website or call (239) 513-9990 to schedule a consultation.