4 Important Things You Should Know About Your New Dental Implants

The decision to go with dental implants rather than dentures was a good one. Once the work was done, you immediately liked your new smile. If you want to keep that smile looking its best, there are a few things you need to know about benefits of dental implants . Keep these factors in mind and your new teeth will look great for a long time.

Dental Implants are Strong

The first question you would like to ask your dentists is “How strong are dental implants?” The strength and durability of dental implants are a lot like your natural teeth. Different types of dental implants are designed to hold up well with just about any activity suitable for the real thing. Thanks to the sturdy materials used for the dental implants and the caps, you can enjoy crunchy foods, hard candies, and all the things that have been a part of your diet for years.

Remember that all the things the dental implant dentist urged you to avoid in the past still hold true today. For example, crunching on ice is no better for your dental implants than it was for your real teeth. It’s still possible to crack a cap if you happen to bit down on a small piece of nutshell or an unpopped kernel of popcorn. That means you will need to take the same precautions with the dental implants that you did with your natural teeth.

You Never Use Dental Adhesives

One of the things you like about your dental implants is that they are permanently in position. Unlike dentures, you don’t remove them at night and then put them back in when you get up the next morning. Best of all, you don’t have to deal with messy dental adhesives.

Many people don’t realize that using adhesives involves more than applying a fresh coat in the morning. Dentures must be scrubbed to remove all the residue of previous adhesive applications. Failing to do so increases the odds that one or both plates will slip out of position during the day. A buildup of the adhesive can also make it more obvious that there are dentures present instead of real teeth.

Thanks to the fact that during the dental implant procedure, implants are buried into the gums and topped with caps that look like natural teeth, you don’t have to worry about cleaning away adhesive or about anything slipping out of place. That one factor alone makes caring for the dental implants a lot easier.

Dental Implant Care. You Still Have to Brush After Meals

It’s true that dental implants are not subject to decay. Even so, you still need to brush after every meal. Tartar and other residues can build up on the surface of each dental implant. It can also collect on the gums, the tongue, and the roof of your mouth. The most effective way to remove the residue is to brush three times a day and use mouthwash at least once.

Keep in mind that it’s not just about making sure the gums and other parts of the mouth are kept clean. It’s also about reducing the risk of gingivitis and other oral conditions. Some of those problems can weaken the gums and loosen the dental implants. By continuing to follow a consistent dental hygiene routine, you keep your smile attractive and your mouth healthy.

You Still See the Dentist for Checkups and Cleanings

Your home routine is not the only aspect of dental health that needs to continue. An annual checkup with your dentist that do dental implants is a must. The dentist will determine if the dental implants are firmly in position and check for any signs of gum disease or inflammation. The caps will also be inspected to ensure there are no fine cracks present and that they are relatively free of any type of residue.

Your dental visits are not limited to annual checkups. It’s still a good idea to go in for at least once dental implants cleaning each year. That ensures any residue that is missed by the brushing can be removed safely. That includes anything that has settled in between the caps.