Dentists and patients choose dental implants for many reasons. Dentists recommend them because they keep your jawbone healthy after tooth loss. Patients prefer them because dental implants look as good if not better than real teeth.
But they’re not real teeth, of course, so caring for dental implants is different. Your dental implants dentist in Aurora, CO shares some tips to help keep them in good shape for many years to come.
1. Avoid Hot and Cold Drinks
You'll love the freedom that comes with dental implants because you can chew and eat all your favorite foods. But very hot beverages can heat up the tiny metal screw that holds the dental implants in place and burn surrounding tissues.
Also, be careful not to consume hot and cold foods or drinks together. The combination of extremes may cause your porcelain restoration to crack or chip.
2. Don’t Use a Vibrating Toothbrush
Dentists often recommend electric toothbrushes to help you get your teeth as clean as possible. However, the vibrations may loosen the implant screw over time. If this occurs, your dentist would have to remove the implant and dental crown and replace them.
3. Brush Twice a Day, Floss Once
Your dental implant can’t get a cavity, but you still need to brush it twice a day and floss once. Keeping your teeth and gums healthy ensures that your dental implant lasts for a long time.
Just be careful when flossing because if you don’t do it properly, you could break the seal where your gum and implant meet. Instead, consider investing in a water flosser such as Waterpik.
4. Quit Smoking
Smoking is terrible for your oral health, and it’s bad for your dental implants. Nicotine reduces the blood flow to the gums that keeps them healthy enough to hold your implant in place. Smoking also puts you at higher risk for gum disease that can threaten the stability of your dental implant.
5. Schedule Dental Hygiene Appointments
Dental cleanings with your hygienist every six months are essential all the time, but especially when you have dental implants in South Aurora, CO. Hygiene appointments keep your gums healthy enough to support your dental implant.
Call Us to Schedule a Dental Appointment
Getting dental implants in Aurora, CO can change your life. Get started today by calling Uptown Comprehensive Dentistry and Prosthodontics to make an appointment with Dr. John Chen.