Keeping Dental Implants in Good Shape

Lost a tooth recently? Did you have to have one extracted?

If so, then chances are good that the dentist is speaking to you about the potential benefits of a dental implant.

Meant to hold artificial teeth in place, these inserts are place beneath the gum line as a sort of support system. However, once in place, they do require some special care, which if not handled correctly, could lead to problems down the road.

Dental implants once fitted into place will form a strong bond to the bone within three months, at which time a replacement tooth or teeth can be fitted into place. At this point, the faux teeth should be treated just as your natural ones are.

This means practicing good oral hygiene. Regular brushing, flossing, and trips to the dentist will help you avoid serious complications later.

Gum disease, which is known to deteriorate the bones, can make it impossible to sustain an implant. Thus good hygiene is of the utmost importance if you wish to preserve the replacement.

In addition to the norm, many dentists will also recommend regular use of a mouth irrigation system. Available over the counter, these devices effectively remove much of the existing plaque and bacteria that is not reached unless in the dentist’s chair.

On the other hand, toothpastes containing abrasives and stain removers can actually damage the faux teeth. Thus, it is important to continue your routine with a few slight adjustments to ensure that the fix is a permanent one.

The full article can be found here