You need to think about the long term maintenance required when it comes to having dental implants. Dental implants are a popular option as they have less maintenance than dentures. Because they are implanted onto the jawbone and become fused with the bone, they are permanent.
Make sure that you inquire about any questions you have when you get dental implants from The Dental Practice. They will tell you about the care required in the first consultation as well so that you are aware of all the facts. If you are using a hard bristle toothbrush, it is best to rethink the toothbrush you will use after the procedure. A soft nylon toothbrush is recommended as they don’t put additional stress on the implant. They will allow you to brush the implants gently. Hard bristles will actually scratch the surface of the implants and affect their appearance. You can brush your implants twice a day the same way you attend to your normal teeth.
Many people tend to avoid flossing just because it is an added step. But when you get implants, you need to get into the routine of flossing to avoid the formation of plaque. You can look at the brand of floss you buy so that you select something that is designed for dental implants. If you forget to floss, you can keep a reminder on your phone close to bedtime and waking up. It is best to keep your toothbrush and floss in your car or purse so that you can take care of your teeth after you eat. Some people find it easier to floss while watching TV as it can distract them from the chore. You need to look at the ingredients of the toothpaste and the mouthwash that you use. It is best to go with sensitive products as they will not be abrasive. Your dentist can recommend a few brands of toothpaste or mouthwashes as well. You can also ask which ingredients you should stay away from when it comes to oral products. A good rule of thumb is to avoid products that have strong flavours like mint.
You will need to scrutinise the food that you eat as well. Hard and sticky food can be damaging to the implants. You can ask your dentist about which food to avoid after getting implants. Generally, it is best to avoid ice, hard candy, caramel, hard food like carrots, apples and crusty bread. This will help you keep your implants healthy for a longer time. There are a few unhealthy habits you need to avoid as well such as smoking and consuming alcohol. There is about a 6 month recovery period for dental implants. This healing period can slow down when you drink alcohol. You also need to keep up on your oral health by visiting the dentist at least once every six months. They will be able to recommend maintenance procedures and let you know about the overall health of the implant as well.