Canal Side Family Dental is a 42 North Dental Care, PLLC practice and is owned and operated by dentists Dr. Samuel Shames, DDM. and Dr. Ronald Weissman, DDM. Gentle Dental is supported by 42 North Dental, LLC, a dental support organization that provides non-clinical administrative and business support services to the practice. 42 North Dental, LLC does not own or operate the dental practice or employ dentists to provide dental services. Find more information about 42 North Dental, LLC and the dental practices it supports at 42northdental.com.
Did you know that dental implants are designed to last a lifetime? Indeed, with proper care, they can stay strong and functional for many years. But how can you help them live up to that potential? It is important that you stick to good habits and avoid bad ones. In this blog post, you will learn about some specific steps you can take to minimize your risk of dental implant failure.
Avoid Tobacco Products
If you want your dental implants to last, staying away from tobacco products is vital. Using tobacco can slow down your body’s healing process and increase your risk of infection after implant placement. Smoking or chewing tobacco also affects blood flow to your gums, making it more difficult for your implants to bond with your jawbone. By quitting tobacco, you will give your dental implants the best chance to heal well and remain stable for years to come.
Maintain Excellent Oral Hygiene
Caring for your dental implants starts with a solid oral hygiene routine. Brush your teeth at least twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush and a non-abrasive toothpaste. Floss gently around your implants to remove food particles and plaque that could lead to gum disease. You may also consider using an antimicrobial mouthwash if your dentist recommends it. Consistent oral care helps keep your gums healthy and reduces the risk of an infection that could lead to dental implant failure.
Attend Regular Dental Checkups
Visiting your dentist regularly is an important part of keeping your dental implants in top shape. Professional cleanings remove plaque and tartar that you may miss at home. Your dentist will also check the condition of your implants and surrounding tissues; they will likely be able to spot any problems early, before they become serious. Make it your goal to attend a preventive appointment at least twice each year.
Eat a Nutritious Diet
What you eat can make a big difference in the success of your dental implants. A balanced diet that includes plenty of vitamins, minerals, and protein supports your body’s ability to heal and maintain strong bone around your implants. Choose foods like leafy greens, lean meats, dairy products, and whole grains. Limiting sugary snacks and drinks helps reduce the risk of infection and keeps your mouth healthier overall.
Protect Your Implants from Damage
Dental implants are strong, but they still need protection from physical damage. If you play sports, wear a custom mouthguard to shield your teeth and implants from injury. If you grind your teeth at night, talk to your dentist about a nightguard to prevent wear and tear. Additionally, try not to bite down on hard objects like ice, popcorn kernels, or pens, as this can damage your implants or surrounding teeth.
You should not be overly worried about dental implant failure. In fact, with proper care, it is very likely that your prosthetic teeth will last for decades to come!
Meet the Practice
At Canal Side Family Dental, we are proud to provide start-to-finish dental implant services, including dental implant maintenance. If you have questions about this treatment or how to make it a long-term success, we would be happy to welcome you into our office for a visit. Contact our Buzzards Bay team at 508-375-3149.