With good oral health and hygiene, your dental implants could last a lifetime. Here’s what you need to know.
Making the decision to undergo dental implants surgery isn’t an easy one, nor is it cheap. This is why you want to give yourself the best possible chance of preserving your new dental implants with minimal risk of dental implant failure.
Cleaning and taking care of your new dental implants is just as important as cleaning your natural teeth. Just like your normal teeth, dental implants rely on healthy tissue for support and without regular oral care, it can lead to plaque and tartar build-up.
This is why we recommend visiting your dental hygienist regularly.
It’s important to have your teeth cleaned on a regular basis so your dentist can remove any plaque and tartar build-up off your teeth, keeping you infection-free.
How to take care of your dental implants
Taking care of your dental implants is no different from taking care of your natural teeth, so if you’re already practising good oral hygiene, you’re on the right track.
1- Brush your teeth
To give yourself the best possible chance of fighting tooth decay, make sure to brush your teeth at least twice a day for 2 minutes each session. You can opt to brush after every meal, but it isn’t necessary. Pick a toothbrush that works for you and your needs as well.
2- Floss
Don’t forget to floss every night. We know how tedious flossing can be but it is one of the most effective methods of preventing plaque build-up between your dental implants and teeth if done correctly.
3- Use mouthwash
Using mouthwash is optional. Just make sure it is all-natural and alcohol-free, as some can be quite abrasive and cause sensitivity.
By following these 3 simple actions, you can ensure your dental implants last a lifetime. If you’re ever unsure or have some questions, always consult your dentist.
Tips on how to take care of your dental implants POST-OP
Immediately after surgery, you will be most at risk of infection and other complications, that’s why it is crucial you pay close attention to post-op care instructions provided by your dentist. Here are some helpful tips to consider in the first few weeks after post dental implant surgery.
- Don’t forget to take your medication. This will ensure your recovery is swift, painless and infection-free without any setbacks.
- Attend to bleeding immediately. As soon as you notice any bleeding, chomp down on some gauze and apply a little pressure for about 20 minutes. If the bleeding does not stop after 30 minutes, apply a cold pack to the surrounding jaw area. If the bleeding still persists for more than 24 hours, contact your dentist immediately.
- Reduce swelling. Apply an ice pack to the surrounding jaw area for around 20 minutes every 3 hours.
- Organise what you’re going to eat. Unfortunately, you might not be able to enjoy your usual favourite foods, so you’ll need to devise a menu of nutritional foods to maintain a healthy immune system and that you can easily chew and swallow. Opt for protein shakes, vegetable and fruit smoothies, rice porridge, veggie soups or omelettes.
- Rinse with saltwater. Unless you have been instructed otherwise by your dentist, rinse your mouth with salt water a few times a day to prevent infection.
- Avoid smoking. Smoking will reduce blood flow to your new dental implants, damage the gum, and increase the risk of infection.
- Avoid strenuous exercise. Sleeping is the fastest way to recover. Avoid any sort of strenuous exercise or activities.
- Drink plenty of water. Staying hydrated will speed up recovery with fewer implications.
If at any stage of the recovery process you start to feel like something isn’t right, contact your dentist immediately. It is important that you follow strict oral health and hygiene that has been provided to you by your dentist before and after your dental implant procedure.
At Alpha Dental we care about your oral health and hygiene, this is why discuss everything with you prior to your dental procedure to ensure all your questions and concerns are answered. We’ll then provide you with an oral health plan that will keep your smile brighter and healthier for the future.