Dental implants are a great solution for people who have lost teeth. They look and function like real teeth, giving you a beautiful smile. But that, like any other part of your body, requires some care and attention to stay healthy. So, let’s talk about how to take care of your dental implants near you so they last for a long time.
What Are Dental Implants?
A dental implant is a small post, usually made of titanium, placed in your jawbone and functioning as an artificial root for your tooth. When your jawbone has healed over it, a crown (artificial tooth) is cemented onto it. The implant is thus firm and stable in this manner.
What Are the 3 Types of Dental Implants?
There are three broad categories of dental implants:
- Endosteal Implants: These are the most popular. The dentist inserts them directly into the jawbone. Following healing, a crown is placed.
- Subperiosteal Implants: These are inserted below the gum but on or above the jawbone. They are applied when the jawbone is too weak.
- Zygomatic Implants: These are less often applied and are installed in the cheekbone rather than the jawbone. They are utilized in advanced cases.
How to Care for Dental Implants After Surgery?
It is very important to take good care of your dental implants after you have gotten them. Here are some steps you should follow:
-
Follow Your Dentist’s Instructions
Your dentist will give you some instructions right after the surgery. It is crucial to pay attention to what they say and follow them. It may involve what to consume and what not to do and more.
-
Keep Your Mouth Clean
Just like natural teeth, dental implants need cleaning. Here are some cleaning tips:
- Brush Your Teeth: You should use a soft toothbrush to brush your implants gently after waking up and before going to bed.
- Floss Daily: Using floss is helpful in removing the food particles between the teeth and around the implant.
- Use Antimicrobial Mouthwash: A special mouthwash can help eliminate bacteria and keep your mouth fresh.
-
Watch What You Eat
In the days after surgery, it’s best to consume soft foods. Avoid the intake of hard or crunchy foods that can hurt the implant or the healing gums. Here are some good food choices:
- Yogurt
- Mashed potatoes
- Smoothies
- Soups
As time goes on, you can slowly return to your normal diet, but be careful with very hard food.
-
Avoid Smoking
If you smoke, try to quit or at least avoid smoking during the healing process. Smoking can harm your gums and make it harder for them to heal properly.
-
Schedule Regular Checkups
Visit your dentist for regular checkups. They will check the health of your gums and the implant. This is very important to ensure that everything is still in good shape.
-
Be Aware of Changes
Pay attention to any changes in your mouth. If you feel pain or swelling or notice changes in how the implant feels, contact your dentist right away. Early detection can prevent bigger problems.
Wrapping Up
Taking care of your dental implants is crucial for their success. By following these simple steps, you will keep your implants and gums healthy. Remember to brush, floss, and keep up with your dental visits. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to ask your dentist.
Replace Missing Teeth with Dental Implants Today!
At Westbank Dental & Implant Center, we offer high-quality dental implants to help you replace missing teeth and restore your smile. Our experienced team of dentist in West Kelowna provides safe, long-lasting solutions that look and feel natural. Whether you’re missing one tooth or several, we’re here to help you eat, speak, and smile with confidence again.
Don’t wait to get your smile back—schedule your consultation today and see how dental implants can help!