Top 5 Tips for Fresh & Clean Dental Implants
If you want things to last in life, you have to put in the work and show them proper care. Dental implants from our Jackson, MI, dentists are no exception and can remain in excellent condition for many years when brushed, flossed, and professionally cleaned.
Here’s how you can keep your new tooth replacement solution in tip-top shape.
For Clean Dental Implants, Remember:
1. Gentle or Soft Products Are King
After you receive a dental implant, you’ll want to switch over to a soft toothbrush and sensitive cleaning products if you haven’t already. These items will prevent any discomfort that may occur and make even easier.
Nylon toothbrushes work great as the bristles are flexible and gentle on your dental implants. Toothbrushes containing hard bristles can instead scratch the surface of your implants. Any type of metal instrument used for cleaning should be avoided as well.
Try to also stay away from any toothpaste or mouthwash that is abrasive. Products of this nature can cause discomfort and intense flavors can result in an uncomfortable mouth feeling.
2. It’s Important to Floss and Brush Regularly
Post and associated healing, you should continue to brush your teeth at least twice a day as well as floss daily. It’s actually more important to floss after you have received dental implants due to possible plaque accumulation.
Yes, plaque can easily build up around your implants which can result in other oral hygiene issues. Luckily, there are many types of floss on the market that are targeted toward people with dental implants.
Have trouble remembering to floss? Our dentists recommend setting a reminder on your phone or flossing while watching tv so it doesn’t feel like much of a chore.
3. To Walk Away From Smoking
In general, our dentists recommend that you avoid smoking for your overall health. It is especially vital to abstain from this habit whether you have one or All-on-X dental implants as smoking can interfere with the healing process following surgery.
Dental implants take about 6 months to heal fully so smoking during this sensitive time can be damaging. For the sake of your teeth, gums, and body, we urge you to refrain from smoking if possible.
4. Sticky/Hard Foods Are Fine (Only After Healing)
Eating any food that is inherently sticky or hard can damage your dental implants soon after recovery. Furthermore, these types of foods can also be harmful to your natural teeth if consumed too regularly.
While dental implants differ from traditional dentures in that they allow for a less restricted diet, proper healing needs to occur first. After your dental implant procedure, try to eat soft foods so your mouth and jaw can rest.
During this time, refrain from munching on:
- Caramel
- Ice
- Hard candies
- Gum
- Apples
- Crusty bread
Once you are fully healed and cleared by our dentists, you are welcome to eat your favorite foods again!
5. To Visit Our Office When Scheduled
Dental implants will restore your smile but unfortunately, they will not absolve you of all future dental issues. Our dentists would still like to see you for routine teeth cleanings every 3-6 months to monitor your oral health.
A visit to our Jackson, MI, dental office will also provide you with an opportunity to bring up any concerns you might have regarding your implants. Our dentists will check on the condition of your dental implants and provide you with helpful advice on care techniques if needed.
Learn More About Dental Implants
Clean dental implants will serve you well and make the investment you made in your oral health worth it. If you’re ever curious about a certain aspect of the care process, please feel free to ask our dental implant dentists in Jackson, MI, and we can give you additional advice. Call The Dental Experience today at (517) 787-5367 to request an appointment.