Tips for Taking Care of Your Dental Implants
Dental implants are a remarkable investment in your oral health and quality of life. They provide a permanent, natural-looking solution for missing teeth and can last for decades with proper care. At Abari Orthodontics & Oral Surgery, we place dental implants for patients throughout the San Dimas area, and one of the most common questions we hear after surgery is: “How do I take care of my new implants?”
Whether you’re new to being a dental implant San Dimas patient or you’ve had your implant for longer, following the right care routine is essential for protecting your investment and ensuring long-term success. In this blog post, we’ll share practical tips for taking care of your dental implants so they stay healthy, functional, and beautiful for years to come.
Maintain Excellent Oral Hygiene
Just because dental implants are artificial doesn’t mean they don’t require daily care. In fact, the tissues surrounding your implants need to stay healthy to support them properly. Brush your teeth at least twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste. Pay special attention to the area around the implant, where plaque and bacteria can accumulate along the gum line.
Flossing is equally important. Use unwaxed tape or implant-specific floss to clean around the base of the implant and beneath the gum line. If traditional flossing is difficult, consider using a water flosser, which can effectively remove debris without irritating sensitive tissues.
Schedule Regular Dental Check-Ups
Routine visits to your general dentist are crucial for maintaining the health of your dental implants. During these appointments, your dentist will check the condition of the implant, the surrounding gum tissue, and your overall oral health. Professional cleanings help remove tartar buildup that brushing and flossing alone can’t eliminate.
Most dentists recommend check-ups every six months, but your provider may suggest more frequent visits depending on your individual needs. Staying consistent with these appointments helps catch potential issues early before they become serious problems.
Avoid Hard or Sticky Foods
While dental implants are incredibly strong and designed to function like natural teeth, it’s still wise to be mindful of what you eat. Avoid chewing on hard objects like ice, hard candy, or pens, as excessive force can damage the crown or affect the stability of the implant over time. Sticky foods like caramel or taffy can also put unnecessary stress on your restoration.
Instead, focus on a balanced diet that supports overall oral health. Foods rich in calcium and vitamin D help maintain strong bones, which is especially important for the jawbone that supports your implants.
Quit Smoking
Smoking is one of the biggest threats to the success of dental implants. It reduces blood flow to the gums, slows healing, and increases the risk of infection and implant failure. If you smoke, quitting is one of the best things you can do to protect your dental implants and your overall health. If you need support in quitting, talk to your doctor or dentist about resources and programs that can help.
Protect Your Implants from Teeth Grinding
If you grind or clench your teeth, especially at night, this habit can put excessive pressure on your dental implants and cause damage over time. This condition, known as bruxism, can lead to complications such as a cracked crown or loosened implant. Your dentist may recommend wearing a custom nightguard to protect your teeth and implants while you sleep. This simple appliance can make a significant difference in preserving the longevity of your restoration.
Watch for Warning Signs
While dental implants have a high success rate, it’s important to stay vigilant for any signs of trouble. Contact your dentist or oral surgeon if you notice any of the following symptoms:
- Persistent pain or discomfort around the implant
- Swelling or redness in the surrounding gum tissue
- Bleeding when brushing or flossing
- A loose implant or crown
- Bad breath that doesn’t improve with better hygiene
Early intervention can prevent minor issues from becoming major complications.
Follow Post-Operative Instructions Carefully
If you’ve recently had your dental implant placed, following your surgeon’s post-operative care instructions is critical during the healing phase. This includes taking prescribed medications, eating soft foods, avoiding certain activities, and keeping the surgical site clean. Proper care during the first few weeks sets the foundation for long-term success.
Partner with Abari Orthodontics & Oral Surgery
Taking care of your dental implants doesn’t have to be complicated. With consistent oral hygiene, regular dental visits, and a few smart lifestyle choices, you can enjoy the benefits of your implants for a lifetime. If you’re considering a dental implant in San Dimas or have questions about caring for your existing implants, our team at Abari Orthodontics & Oral Surgery is here to help.
We specialize in the surgical placement of dental implants and work closely with your general dentist to ensure seamless, coordinated care. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can restore your smile with confidence.
