Many Americans are increasingly using dental implants because they have numerous benefits. For instance, dental implants Sunnyvale can help keep the teeth near a missing tooth stable as they do not misalign. Implants are also great as they function and appear like natural teeth and can last a lifetime.
At the very least, dental implants can last from 15 to 30 years before they are replaced. One common alternative to dental implants is dentures. Although dentures provide a cheaper solution for replacing multiple missing teeth, they need replacement after every five or seven years.
You will need to look after your dental implants every day. A long-lasting dental implant will save you from quite costly replacement. Below are effective ways to extend your dental implants’ lifespan.
- Always ensure your teeth and implants are hygienic
Ensure your dental implants and the natural mouth structures are clean by always brushing and flossing. Brushing and flossing can help reduce small pieces from meals accumulating on the teeth and implants.
If you are brushing your mouth, do it two times daily and in a pleasant manner. Furthermore, use a brush and toothpaste that do not promote extreme rubbing against the surface of your teeth and dental implants.
A brush or toothpaste that causes significant rubbing against the enamel can slowly weaken it. A weakened or unhealthy enamel cannot protect the internal structures of your teeth. Consequently, you become prone to dental issues like cavities and teeth loss.
- Avoid destructive meals and beverages
Avoid eating foods that can get stuck in your mouth, especially when dental implants are worn. Foods that leave sticky particles inside your mouth will encourage more buildup of a film of material on your teeth and implants.
That film of food particles, called plaque or tartar, provides an environment that increases harmful microbes in your mouth. More microbes in the mouth result in more secretion of acids that can cause extreme abrasion of the enamel.
Additionally, avoid consuming foods that are crunchy when wearing implants. Chewing hard foods such as potato chips or seeds can pressure dental implants, slowly leading to their damage. Likewise, avoid foods and beverages that are acidic or sugary, like soda, candy, and citrus fruits.
- Practice healthy oral habits
Some common oral habits can slowly damage your dental implants without you noticing until the issue is severe. These harmful oral habits may include biting hard-to-break objects such as coins and pencils.
Do not use your teeth and implants to open a packet of chips or a package and remove a cap from a bottle. Also, strictly use your hands or pockets, not your teeth, to hold objects.
Although you can maintain hygienic oral health at home, you will still need the services of a dentist. A dentist has extensive training, experience, products, and equipment that can allow excellent cleaning of teeth and implants. Also, when you frequently visit a dentist, it is possible to identify problems with your implants early enough.
Contact Perio & Implant Center of Monterey Bay today to schedule a consultation with a specialist in dental implants.
