For individuals who may have lost a few teeth due to accidents, decay, or some other dental problems, dentures may provide hours and hours of service. While they restore the look of a natural smile, they ultimately have the strength and durability needed for eating, talking, etc. However, like natural teeth, dentures do require proper care to keep our smile in great condition for years to come.
If you have dentures or are considering dentures, this guide will assist you in keeping your smile healthy and ensuring you can keep your dentures for a lifetime.
1. Practice Oral Hygiene
They’re thinking a little wrong when it comes to caring for implants; actually, the opposite is true- implants may require care comparable to that of real teeth. They cannot have cavities, but if you want to keep your gums in order and not wake up one day with a problem, they must be cared for regularly.
- Brush Twice a Day: You should clean all your natural teeth and implants with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride-free toothpaste. Fluoride is a good thing for natural teeth, but according to some of the different compositions, it’s not necessarily good for all implants because they can be too abrasive for them.
- Floss Daily: There has been a build-up of bacteria and other debris at the gum line, which has a potential inflammatory possibility or infection that may originate from this particular site. Use implant-proven floss, and you can also use non-abrasive flossing water to keep it clean.
- Use an Antibacterial Mouthwash: Mouthwash is a very powerful antiseptic, which helps get rid of those bacteria and even makes your breath smell good.
2. Schedule Regular Dental Check-Ups
Regular dental visits are essential for implant maintenance. Your dentist will check the condition of your gums, the integrity of the implant, and perform cleaning for areas that could be difficult for you to clean yourself.
- Schedule your appointments every six months: A cleaning session will decrease plaque accumulation and enable the dentist to instruct you on early signs of gum disease or implant failure.
- Get X-rays as needed: This allows the dentist to pick up complications that may not be clinically observable with your implants or beneath the bone.
3. Be Mindful of Your Diet
Even though dental implants in Airdrie make it possible to eat most foods without discomfort, it is still important to make smart choices about what you eat to protect your oral health.
- Steer clear of Sticky and Hard foods: Chewing on hard candies, ice, and caramel puts undue strain on your implants and neighbouring teeth.
- Eat a nutrient-rich diet: Foods like leafy greens, dairy foods, lean sources of protein, and fresh fruit help to keep your gums and jawbone healthy and strong.
- Limit sugar and acidic foods: Too much sugar and acidic foods feed the bacteria around the gums and lead to gum disease.
4. Quit Smoking and Limit Alcohol Consumption
The success of dental implants can be adversely affected by smoking and excessive alcohol use.
- Smoking Slows Healing: After implant surgery, nicotine slows blood flow, which makes it more difficult for the gums to heal.
- Increased Risk of Implant Failure: Studies show that smokers are at a higher risk of implant failure compared to non-smokers.
- Alcohol Weakens the Immune System: Excess alcohol can reduce the body’s ability to fight infections, making it harder to maintain a healthy smile.
5. Protect Your Implants from Damage
Despite their strength, dental implants can be broken. Their longevity can be increased by taking preventative measures such as:
- Wear a Mouthguard if You Play Sports: A blow to the face can damage both natural teeth and implants. A custom-fitted mouthguard provides extra protection.
- Avoid Using Teeth as Tools: Avoid biting into hard things, tearing packages, or opening bottles with your teeth.
- Handle Teeth Grinding: To avoid putting undue strain on your implants, if you grind your teeth at night, think about wearing a nightguard.
6. Recognize Warning Signs
Even after caring as much as you can, the issues may still arise. Knowing the early signs of problems can help prevent serious complications.
- Red, Swollen, or Bleeding Gums: They may indicate peri-implantitis, an infection that, if left untreated, can cause implant failure.
- Persistent Bad Breath: If you notice chronic bad breath despite good oral hygiene, it may indicate an underlying issue.
- Looseness or Discomfort: Dental implants should feel secure. If you experience any issue, visit a dentist near you immediately.
7. Address the Most Common Problem with Dental Implants
Despite its great success, peri-implantitis is the most common problem with dental implants. Bacteria infect the gum tissue around the implant in this situation, which may result in bone loss and implant failure. Maintaining good oral hygiene and scheduling routine dental exams might help avoid this problem.
8. Find the Right Dentist for Your Implants
Selecting a dental practitioner with training and expertise is crucial if you are thinking about getting dental implants. A skilled dentist will ensure the procedure is done correctly and provide guidance on maintaining your implants for years to come.
Make your smile shine bright!
A long-term investment in your smile and general health is a dental implant.
By practicing good oral hygiene, making healthy lifestyle choices, and visiting your dentist in Airdrie regularly, you can enjoy a beautiful, functional smile for years to come.
At Airdrie Family Dentists, we are committed to helping you maintain excellent oral health. Whether you need professional advice or a routine check-up, our team is here to support your dental journey!
