How to Get the Most Out of Your Dental Implants in San Antonio

If you’re missing any number of teeth, it can set off a chain reaction of events, which can include the surrounding teeth shifting, bite imbalances (also called malocclusion), jawbone loss and smile imperfections. With the placement of dental implants in San Antonio, though, these problems can be prevented, and you can regain the confidence you’ve been missing. To ensure long-lasting implants, here are some maintenance tips that need to be implemented.

Tip #1 – Don’t Forget to Brush

The necessity of practicing excellent oral hygiene doesn’t change when dental implants are placed. Thus, it’s important to brush your teeth at least two times a day to agitate and remove any leftover food particles or plaque that cling to the greater surface of your teeth.

Tip #2 – Dental Floss to Get into the Tight Spaces

While brushing your teeth is a vital part of your oral hygiene routine, it doesn’t suffice by itself. To clean between your teeth, you need something flexible, and dental floss is the perfect solution.

It not only removes debris in the tight spaces, but it also protects your gums by preventing plaque from settling and eventually forming germ pockets beneath the gum line.

Tip #3 – Monitor Your Food Intake

Just as important as keeping your teeth clean is the quality of the foods you consume. A diet high in sugary items like desserts and candy can attract more bacteria than normal.

This is significant because the latter are the prime nemeses of your oral health, and as the bacteria feed on the sugars, they release caustic fluids that can contribute to tooth and gum decay.

Here are some healthier options to consider that will still satisfy a sweet-craving:

• Fruits
• Sugar-free candy
• Sugar-free gum
• Alternative natural sweeteners like Xylitol or stevia

Tip #4 – Don’t Use Your Teeth as Tools

Your teeth are designed for very specific purposes, and one of them is to aid in the digestion of food. Thus, you should avoid such activities as chewing ice, prying open packages or biting your nails. These bad habits can cause your implant to dislodge, and they can lead to a dental emergency.

Tip #5 – Visit Your Dentist on a Regular Basis

Every six months, you should visit your dentist for preventive care. While there, you’ll receive a professional cleaning, and the condition of your implant will be assessed. Therefore, if an adjustment needs to be made, it can be done before any problems arise.

Having a dental implant placed is a way to get a new lease on life, but the first step is to reach out to a local implant dentist to get the process started. Then, once your smile is restored, by following the guidelines provided, you can enjoy your restoration for years to come!

About the Author

Dr. Joseph Noble earned his dental degree from the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio. Since then, he has remained committed to providing top-notch care. Dr. Noble helps his patients regain the lives they once had by placing dental implants at his private practice, and he can be reached for more information through his website.