Dental Implant Maintenance
Adult tooth loss is an unfortunate reality for many. Missing teeth compromise oral strength, functions, and aesthetics. When it comes to replacing lost teeth, there is no dental treatment that is more beneficial than dental implants. Dental implants replace the roots and crowns of lost teeth, and provide superior strength, stability, and durability.
While dental implants have the potential to last a lifetime, it is important that they are cared for properly. Here, Dr. Edward Narcisi, whose dental practice serves Monroeville, PA, Pittsburgh, PA, and surrounding areas, offers dental implant maintenance tips that will help his patients enjoy a strong, healthy, and functional smile long-term.
Practice Good Oral Hygiene Habits
One of the most important aspects of a dental implant maintenance routine is good oral hygiene habits. Fortunately, dental implants are very easy to keep clean, because they can be cared for just like the natural teeth. While other tooth loss replacements need to be removed and soaked in cleaning solutions, dental implants are a permanent part of the smile, and can be brushed and flossed just like natural teeth. We recommend that patients brush their teeth at least twice a day, and floss daily. After meals or snacks it is a good idea to rinse the mouth with water (whenever brushing is not possible) to help wash away any sugars, acids, or food particles.
Dental implants are made of strong materials, so they do not require any special cleaning tools. However, to keep wear and tear to a minimum, and to reduce the risk of plaque and tartar buildup, we advise brushing with a soft-bristled toothbrush along with a fluoride-based toothpaste. Using mouthwash twice a day is also beneficial, as it can kill bacteria that may be left behind after brushing and flossing.
Schedule Regular Dental Exams and Cleanings
At-home oral hygiene habits are effective for day-to-day dental implant maintenance, but it is important to schedule regular dental exams and cleanings as well. Professional cleanings get rid of plaque and tartar that cannot be easily brushed or flossed away, and dental exams (which should include yearly x-rays) allows us to monitor dental implants and surrounding tissues to ensure that no complications have arisen. Dental exams and cleanings should be scheduled at least biannually, but if our Monroeville patients experience any concerning symptoms, such as pain or difficulty biting or chewing, they should schedule an exam as soon as possible.
Repair Damage in a Timely Manner
With proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime. However, even if the implants themselves are in good condition, the restorations that are affixed to the implants could become damaged or worn down. It is essential that any damage is repaired in a timely manner. Chipped, cracked, or broken restorations compromise oral functions and may increase the risk of infection.
Contact Our Dental Practice
If you have suffered adult tooth loss and would like to learn how dental implants can rebuild your smile to restore oral strength, functions, and aesthetics, we invite you to schedule an appointment with Dr. Edward Narcisi. To get started, contact our dental practice online, or call our dental office at (412) 373-9447.
