Whether you need a few teeth replaced or a full new set of teeth, dental implants are your best and most reliable option. More secure and comfortable than dentures, crowns, and veneers, dental implants also look incredibly natural and can be created to mimic the look of your original smile. A beautiful option that looks and feels natural, dental implants are also fairly easy to care for.
In this guide, we’ll share five simple tips to help you keep your smile looking and feeling amazing after your dental implants are installed. Much like your natural teeth, dental implants require regular cleaning and upkeep, but it’s nothing you can’t manage with just a few minutes of dedicated time each day.
1. Floss Regularly
If you’re getting dental implants, you still need to floss regularly post-procedure. It’s common for plaque to build up around new dental implants, causing bad breath (halitosis), bacterial buildup, and potential for decay. After receiving your dental implants, be sure to floss at least once a day, or ideally, after every meal to prevent food from building up between your new teeth.
2. Clean With a Soft-Bristle Toothbrush
Did you know that hard-bristle toothbrushes can scratch your dental implants? To avoid unnecessary wear and tear, gently clean your implants with a soft-bristle toothbrush twice per day, once in the morning, and once at night. Soft bristles will not only help protect your implants, but will also do a more thorough job cleaning between your teeth and along the gum line.
Complimentary Diagnostic Digital X-rays & Consultation
Book a consultation with us today to learn if dental implants are right for you. ($375 Value)
3. Use Sensitive Cleaning Products
After receiving a dental implant procedure, one often needs to swap their toothpaste or mouthwash with non-abrasive versions. Also, keep in mind that certain toothpaste and mouthwash flavors, such as mint or cinnamon, will be too strong for your new dental implants. Avoid discomfort by using toothpaste and mouthwash formulated for sensitive teeth and gums.
4. Avoid Damaging Foods
To keep your implants healthy, clean, and free of damage, limit consumption of hard, sticky, and highly acidic or sugary foods. Hard fruits and vegetables like apples and carrots should be sliced into smaller, more manageable pieces. Sticky foods like caramel and chewing gum should be limited or avoided altogether. Super-acidic or sugary foods like sodas and hard candies may also cause damage to your teeth, and should be consumed in small amounts.
5. Schedule Dentist Visits
Just because you have new teeth doesn’t mean you shouldn’t still go to the dentist regularly! Keep up regularly scheduled appointments for checkups and cleanings, and be sure to notify any new dentists of your dental health history. Your dentist will want to closely monitor the health of your implants, so it is important to be forthcoming with their health and condition. Try to schedule dental appointments at least every six-months to check for general wellbeing and to ensure long-lasting oral health.
Sarasota, FL
Sun City Center
Westchase
Livingston
