Categories: Dental Implants

How to Care For Your New Dental Implant Restoration

A dental implant restoration is a significant investment in your oral health. This tooth replacement option offers durability while improving the function and appearance of your smile. However, there are ways how you can ensure the long-term success and integrity of the restoration.

Daily oral hygiene practices

Keeping good oral hygiene is important for the longevity of a dental implant restoration. Patients should brush their teeth twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush to remove plaque and bacteria from the restoration and the soft tissue around it. Use non-abrasive toothpaste to prevent scratching the surface of the restoration.

Additionally, floss at least once daily with implant-friendly or interdental brushes. This practice cleans hard-to-reach spots and prevents plaque from building up. Patients can also use antimicrobial mouthwash to reduce the accumulation of bacteria and help their gum tissue around the restoration stay healthy.

Dietary guidelines for implant longevity

Certain dietary habits can affect how long the dental implant restoration lasts. Patients should avoid chewing on hard or sticky foods like ice, caramel, or hard candies. These can put extra stress on the implant and the abutment attached to it, whether it be a crown, bridge, or denture.

Additionally, the patient should avoid acidic foods and drinks, such as citrus fruits and fizzy drinks. These can harm the enamel and irritate the gum tissue. Instead, they should consume a balanced diet of vitamins and minerals to keep their mouth healthy and support strong gum tissue around the implant.

Avoid harmful habits

Certain harmful habits can jeopardize the success of a dental implant restoration. Smoking and tobacco use increase the risk of gum disease, which can lead to implant failure. Quitting smoking and other consumption of tobacco can improve the longevity of the restoration and the patient's overall oral health.

Bruxism, a condition where a person grinds their teeth, can also place excessive pressure on the restoration and surrounding bone structure. The dentist may recommend a night guard to protect the implant and remaining natural teeth against grinding. Additionally, patients should avoid using their teeth as tools to open packages or bite non-food objects to prevent accidental damage.

Regular dental checkups and professional cleanings

Routine dental visits are important for checking the health of a dental implant. Professional cleanings remove tartar buildup and help the dentist evaluate how stable the implant restoration is. Regular checkups allow the dentist to spot problems like gum swelling or unevenness before they get worse. The dentist can also recommend specific cleaning techniques or products to help the patient keep their mouth healthy.

Recognizing potential complications

While dental implant restorations have a high success rate, there are complications associated with the treatment. Patients should be aware of the following symptoms:

  • Persistent pain
  • Swollen gums
  • Peri-implantitis
  • Bleeding around the implant site
  • Loose or shifting implant
  • Implant fractures

Taking action as early as possible can help preserve the implant and surrounding oral structures.

Call our office to schedule an appointment

A dental implant restoration provides a durable and natural-looking solution for missing teeth. But you have to take proper care of it to ensure its long-term success. Following the guidelines above can help protect your investment and oral health to ensure that the restoration remains in optimal condition for years to come. Call our Chesterfield office to learn more or to schedule an appointment.

Request an appointment here: https://www.mfgrassodds.com or call Michael F. Grasso DDS at (636) 777-7700 for an appointment in our Chesterfield office.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Implant Restoration in Chesterfield, MO.

Recent Posts

Dental Restoration Options To Replace A Missing Tooth

Losing a tooth can be disconcerting. Thankfully, there are multiple dental restoration options to replace the missing tooth and restore dental functions. Read on to learn about available options. The choice ultimately boils down to the patient's oral condition and preferences. A dentist will recommend the proper treatment following a dental evaluation.The following are common…

Dental Restoration Procedures For Damaged Teeth

Dental restoration treatments might be right for you if you are unhappy about the way your teeth look. There are various treatments that a dentist can use to restore teeth. Each has its pros and cons, so the dentist will educate you about the best options for you.Reasons that you might be unhappy with the…

Dental Restoration Treatment For Tooth Decay

Dental restoration treatments can be used to repair teeth that have been damaged by tooth decay. Such treatments can also restore the look and functionality of the tooth.Tooth decay is an oral issue that most people have to deal with at some point. There are acids in some of the foods we consume, like citrus…

5 Services By A Restorative Dentist Explained

A restorative dentist focuses on diagnosing and treating dental problems that affect the function and appearance of the teeth. While general dentistry emphasizes prevention and maintenance, a restorative dentist provides solutions for damaged, decayed, or missing teeth. These services are essential for patients seeking to regain comfort, oral function, and confidence in their smiles. Our…

Michael F. Grasso DDS

Share
Published by
Michael F. Grasso DDS

Recent Posts

5 Services By a Restorative Dentist Explained

A restorative dentist focuses on diagnosing and treating dental problems that affect the function and…

1 month ago

Dental Crowns and Front Teeth: What You Should Know

A dental crown is a versatile restoration that can protect, strengthen, and enhance the appearance…

2 months ago

Life After a Smile Makeover: How to Protect Your Investment

A smile makeover enhances the appearance of teeth through cosmetic procedures such as veneers, whitening,…

3 months ago

General Dentistry Tip: When You Should Be Concerned About Halitosis

Halitosis is the general dentistry term for chronic bad breath, which means it is constant…

4 months ago

When to Consider Getting Invisalign®

Invisalign® is a great treatment option for people looking to correct minor imperfections.

5 months ago

Can My Dentist Place Multiple Implants in One Appointment?

Dental implants are a great option for replacing missing teeth. They can last a lifetime…

7 months ago