How to Care for Your Dental Implants in San Diego, CA
Dental Implant Maintenance
One of the most appealing aspects of dental implants is their minimal maintenance requirements. As a tooth replacement that mimics the look, feel, and function of natural teeth, dental implant treatment offers patients a lifetime of oral health success.
To ensure your restoration lasts and to enhance its longevity, our San Diego, CA dentists have crafted a detailed guide on caring for dental implants. If you have any inquiries, reach out to our dental team today by calling (858) 331-1256.
Caring for Your Dental Implants
Basic Oral Hygiene Habits
Maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial for the health and durability of your dental implants. Key oral hygiene practices include brushing your teeth twice daily, flossing every day, and using an antiseptic mouthwash to eliminate bacteria and freshen your breath.
Brushing Your Teeth
A vital step in maintaining dental implants is brushing your teeth twice daily. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and a toothpaste specifically designed for implants. Ensure you brush all surfaces of your teeth, including the tops, sides, chewing surfaces, and gum lines.
Flossing
Flossing is essential for removing plaque and food particles from between your teeth and around your dental implants. Consider using a floss threader or specialized dental floss made for dental implants to ease flossing around the implant post.
A highly effective flossing method is the Waterpik, which can reach hard-to-access spots and keep your gum line clean.
Rinsing Your Mouth
Rinsing your mouth after meals is a critical step in preserving the health of your dental implants. It helps clear away food particles and bacteria left behind after eating, preventing plaque and tartar buildup around the implant post.
Opt for an antiseptic mouthwash formulated for dental implants. Swish the mouthwash around your mouth for 30 seconds to a minute, ensuring you reach all areas, including the implant site. Spit it out and rinse your mouth with water.
Routine Visits to the Dentist
Regular dental checkups and cleanings are vital for maintaining excellent oral health and keeping your dental implants in top condition. Our dentist will assess your implants for any signs of wear or damage and clean and polish them to remove plaque and tartar buildup.
Problems That Can Occur Without Dental Implant Maintenance
Despite regular care, issues with implant maintenance can occur. Here are some common problems and how to address them:
- Peri-implantitis: This gum disease affects the tissue around the implant, leading to inflammation and bone loss. Symptoms include bleeding, swelling, and redness around the implant. Treatment may involve antibiotics, deep cleaning procedures, or surgery in severe cases.
- Loose implant: A loose or wobbly implant may result from a loose abutment screw or implant failure. Contact our dentist immediately for evaluation and treatment options.
Broken restoration: The crown, bridge, or denture attached to the implant may become loose, crack, or break over time due to wear and tear or physical trauma. Depending on the damage, your dentist may recommend repair or replacement.- Gum recession: Recession around the implant can expose it to bacteria, risking implant failure. Our dentist may suggest gum grafting surgery to address recession and prevent further damage.
Prompt treatment for any implant maintenance issues is crucial to prevent further damage and ensure implant longevity. Regular dental check-ups and follow-up appointments can also help identify potential problems early.
If you’re experiencing any issues with your dental implant, contact our dentist in San Diego, CA by calling (858) 331-1256.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I visit the dentist after getting dental implants?
After receiving your dental implants, continue visiting your dentist once every six months. Regular visits ensure your dental implants remain in excellent condition, along with your surrounding natural teeth.
Can I continue to use my regular toothbrush and toothpaste on my dental implants?
Most dentists recommend using a toothbrush and toothpaste formulated for dental implants, as they’re designed to clean and protect the implant post and surrounding tissue without causing damage. Your dentist will recommend the best products for your specific case.
Does food get trapped under a dental implant?
Since the base of your dental implant is fused with your jawbone, food won’t get trapped under the restoration. Unlike other tooth replacements, dental implants closely resemble natural teeth in appearance, feel, and function.
Your Dental Implant Procedure Results Can Last a Lifetime
With proper care, dental implants provide a lifelong solution to missing teeth. If you have any questions about dental implant care, contact our San Diego, CA dentist today. Call our San Diego, CA, office at (858) 331-1256 to schedule your consultation.