Avoid These 5 Mistakes to Ensure Successful Dental Implants

Dental implants are a great alternative to replacing missing teeth. They offer a long-lasting, natural-looking alternative to traditional dentures or bridges. However, not taking care of dental implants correctly may result in complications like implant failure, infection, and bone loss. Here are some mistakes to avoid when getting dental implants.

1. Not Choosing an Experienced Implant Dentist

The first and most important step in ensuring successful dental implants is to work with an experienced implant dentist. Dental implant placement is a complex procedure that requires precision and skill. An experienced implant dentist will have the necessary training, knowledge, and equipment to perform the procedure correctly.

Before choosing a dentist, research their qualifications and experience. Ask for before-and-after photos of previous patients and read reviews online. You may also ask for referrals from friends or family members who have had dental implants.

2. Ignoring Oral Hygiene

After getting dental implants, it is imperative to maintain good oral hygiene to prevent infection and implant failure. Brush twice a day, floss daily, and use an antibacterial mouthwash. Try to visit your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings.

If you neglect oral hygiene, plaque and bacteria can build up around the implant, leading to inflammation, infection, and bone loss. In severe cases, the implant may need to be removed.

3. Smoking

Smoking is a significant risk factor for dental implant failure. It reduces blood flow to the gums, which slows down the healing process. This vice also weakens the immune system, making it difficult for you to fight an infection.

If you smoke, you should consider quitting before getting dental implants. If you can’t stop, talk to your dentist about ways to reduce the risk of implant failure. Your dentist might suggest more frequent checkups and cleanings or prescribe antibiotics to prevent infection.

4. Not Following Post-Operative Instructions

Your dentist will give you post-operative instructions to follow after getting dental implants.
These instructions are crucial for the healing process and ensuring the success of the implants. Be sure to follow them carefully and ask your dentist any questions you may have.

Some common post-operative instructions include avoiding hard or chewy foods, avoiding smoking or drinking alcohol, and taking prescribed medications. Your dentist may also recommend using an ice pack to reduce swelling and pain.

5. Neglecting Dental Implant Maintenance

Dental implants require regular maintenance to ensure their longevity. Even though they are artificial teeth, they still require proper maintenance like natural teeth. Neglecting dental implant maintenance can lead to complications such as plaque buildup, gum disease, and implant failure.

To maintain dental implants, brush twice daily, floss daily, and use an interdental brush to clean between the implant and the gumline. Also, make it a point to see your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings. They may also recommend using a water flosser or mouthwash to help keep the implant clean.

Key Takeaways

Although dental implants are a viable alternative for replacing missing teeth, they require proper care to ensure their success. You can start by choosing an experienced implant dentist, maintaining good oral hygiene, quitting smoking, following post-operative instructions, and practicing regular dental implant maintenance. With proper care and attention, your dental implants can last a lifetime.

At MDIS®, we are committed to providing dental implant services and educating our patients on maintaining their implants. Our dentists use cutting-edge technology and techniques to ensure successful implant placement and long-term success. Call us today at (888) 912-5068 or visit on of our convenient locations at Sarsota, Sun City Center, Tampa, or Livingston to book a consultation!