Dental implants are an increasingly popular method of tooth replacement, and it’s easy to see why. Not only do they look just like real teeth, but they also work like them too. In fact, these permanent restorations have nearly the same biteforce as your real teeth, and because they’re permanent, you never need to remove them to clean them like you do with dentures. Better yet, there’s no need to worry about them slipping out while you’re speaking or eating, and you can even sleep without taking them out.
But unlike dentures, dental implants do have a five percent chance of failure. Though rare, dental implant failure can result in the need for additional procedures such as bone grafts and reimplantation surgery. Here’s how you can improve your dental implant success and keep your beautiful new smile looking and feeling great for a lifetime!
Don’t Smoke or Drink
Smoking, vaping, chewing tobacco, or drinking alcohol can all damage the gum tissue surrounding your dental implants, as well as slow down the healing process. To give your new smile the best odds possible, quit smoking at least two months before your procedure, and try to avoid using any tobacco or alcohol products for at least six months prior. Better yet, quit for good!
Maintain Your Oral Hygiene
In some cases, poor oral hygiene may be partly to blame for why you need dental implants in the first place, but don’t let the same thing happen to your restorations. When you get dental implants, it’s imperative that you care for your smile by brushing twice a day, flossing at least once a day, and only using your teeth (both real and prosthetic) for food. That means no using them to open packaging, bite fingernails, or crunch ice cubes or pen caps!
Follow Your Aftercare Instructions
Aftercare instructions were designed by your dentist to ensure that your new smile has the best possible odds of success. Thus, it is very important that you follow them as closely as possible. Neglecting to do so can cause a host of problems from dental infections to dental implant failure.
Remember, the odds of your dental implants succeeding are in your favor, but don’t bury your lead with bad behavior. Avoid smoking, drinking, and poor oral habits, and you’ll give your new smile a fighting chance at lasting a lifetime.
About Dr. Palmer
Dr. Sienna Palmer earned her dental degree from the Ostrow School of Dentistry at the University of Southern California and has never stopped learning since. She is certified in Invisalign and well versed in CAD/CAM technology and biometric dentistry. If you are interested in learning more about dental implants and if you’re a good candidate for this life-changing treatment, please schedule a consultation on our website or call Palm Dentistry today at 949-365-0951.