Dental Implant Maintenance

One of the most convenient benefits of dental implants is that they don’t require any special maintenance. As a tooth replacement that looks, acts, and feels just like natural teeth, patients can achieve a lifetime of oral health success with dental implant treatment. 

To ensure that your restoration lasts and to help increase its longevity, our Urbandale, IA, dentists have created a comprehensive guide to caring for dental implants. If you have any questions, contact our dental team today at (515) 276-4981.

Caring for Your Dental Implants

Basic Oral Hygiene Habits

Good oral hygiene is essential for maintaining the health and longevity of your dental implants. Oral hygiene habits to follow include brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing daily, and using an antiseptic mouthwash to kill bacteria and freshen your breath.

Brushing Your Teeth

One of the most effective ways to maintain dental implants is by brushing your teeth twice a day. When brushing your teeth, use a soft-bristled toothbrush and toothpaste that’s specifically formulated for implants. Make sure to brush all surfaces of your teeth, including the tops, sides, chewing surfaces, and gum lines.

Flossing

Flossing is crucial for removing plaque and food particles from between your teeth and around your dental implants. Use a floss threader or special dental floss designed for dental implants to make flossing around the implant post easier. 

One of the best methods for flossing is known as a Waterpik. It can reach difficult spots and keep the gum line clean.

Rinsing Your Mouth

Rinsing your mouth between meals is an essential step in maintaining the health of your dental implants. It helps remove food particles and bacteria that may be left behind after eating, which can lead to plaque and tartar buildup around the implant post.

Use an antiseptic mouthwash specifically formulated for dental implants. Swish the mouthwash around your mouth for 30 seconds to a minute, making sure to reach all areas of your mouth, including the implant site. Spit the mouthwash out and rinse your mouth with water.

Routine Visits to the Dentist

Regular dental checkups and cleanings are essential for maintaining excellent oral health and keeping your dental implants in pristine condition. Our dentist will examine your implants to check for any signs of wear or damage and clean and polish them to remove plaque and tartar buildup.

Problems That Can Occur Without Dental Implant Maintenance

Implant maintenance problems can occur despite regular care and maintenance. Here are some common problems and how to address them:

• Peri-implantitis: This is a type of gum disease that affects the tissue around the implant, leading to inflammation and bone loss. Symptoms include bleeding, swelling, and redness around the implant. To treat peri-implantitis, your dentist may recommend antibiotics, deep cleaning procedures, or even surgery in severe cases.
• Loose implant: If you feel like your implant is loose or wobbly, it may be due to a loose abutment screw or implant failure. Contact our dentist immediately for an evaluation and treatment options.
• Broken restoration: The crown, bridge, or denture that’s attached to the implant may become loose, crack, or break over time. This can be due to normal wear and tear or physical trauma. Depending on the extent of the damage, your dentist may recommend a repair or replacement.
• Gum recession: Gum recession can occur around the implant, exposing the implant to bacteria and leading to implant failure. Our dentist may recommend gum grafting surgery to address the recession and prevent further damage.

It’s crucial to seek prompt treatment for any implant maintenance problems to prevent further damage and ensure the longevity of your implant. Regular dental check-ups and follow-up appointments can also help catch potential issues early.

If you’re dealing with any problems with your dental implant, contact our dentist in Urbandale by calling (515) 276-4981.

Frequently Asked Questions

Your Dental Implants Can Last a Lifetime at Hickman Family Dental

With proper care, dental implants are a life-long solution to missing teeth. If you have any questions about dental implant care, contact our Urbandale, IA dentist today by calling (515) 276-4981. We’re more than happy to answer any questions you may have.