Dental implants were designed to be a permanent solution for missing teeth. They have the potential to last for a lifetime! Sadly, though, they do fail in rare cases. What steps can you take to help your new teeth stand the test of time? You might need to adjust your lifestyle. Here are a few practical suggestions that can contribute to ideal conditions for your dental implants:
Take Excellent Care of Your Mouth
Dental implants may fail if the tissue around them becomes infected by harmful bacteria. A key way to reduce the chances of that happening is by sticking to a good oral hygiene routine. You should:
- See your general dentist twice a year for a checkup and cleaning.
- Brush your teeth twice a day.
- Clean around the base of your implants with floss or a water flosser.
- Visit your dentist at the first sign of any problems around your dental implants, such as redness, swelling, or gum recession.
- Use an antibacterial mouth rinse.
Quit Smoking
Smoking is a huge risk factor for dental implant failure. It is dangerous in a few ways:
- It contributes to dry mouth, which can allow harmful bacteria to thrive.
- It may adversely affect your immune system and make you more vulnerable to oral infections.
- It can negatively affect your overall health, which can play a big role in the long-term success of dental implants.
Admittedly, it can be extremely difficult to quit smoking. If you are struggling to kick the habit, consult with your primary care practitioner. They may be able to offer resources that can help. At the very least, they be able to help you reduce the number of cigarettes you smoke each day.
Manage Your Overall Health
There is an undeniable connection between oral and overall health, so if you want your dental implants to endure, you should take reasonable measures to care for your total wellness. For example, you should:
- Eat a balanced diet. Try to limit your sugar intake and consume lots of nutrient-rich foods, such as fruits, vegetables, proteins, and healthy fats.
- Exercise regularly. Moderate physical activity can do much to support your immune system and reduce inflammation throughout your body.
- Keep stress to a minimum. Prolonged stress may adversely affect your immune system. It might also instigate teeth grinding, which can be very damaging to dental implants.
- Manage chronic health conditions. For example, uncontrolled diabetes can be particularly detrimental to dental implants.
Your dental implants could serve you well for the rest of your life. Take steps to protect them from harm so you can have a worry-free smile!
Meet the Practice
Drs. Steve Koo and William Shepard provide a range of oral surgery services to the Katy community, including dental implant placement and treatment for failing dental implants. If you have questions about this type of tooth replacement and how to make a success out of it, our team would be happy to speak with you. Contact Piney Point Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery of Katy/Cypress at 832-353-1100.