One of the best options for replacing a missing tooth is a dental implant. Such a device will function just like your natural tooth, with a titanium post inserted into your jaw, working like the tooth’s root and holding an abutment and crown.

Dental implants can last for decades if you take proper care of them, but before you pursue them, it’s vital that you understand the kind of implant care that is ultimately necessary for you.

The Importance of Oral Hygiene for Dental Implants

Although a tooth implant cannot suffer from tooth decay, bacteria will still be able to settle on the underlying gum, potentially leading to gum disease. Peri-implantitis is a particularly worrisome inflammatory condition that occurs when bacteria infect the tissues surrounding the dental implant. It causes pain and swelling and might even result in implant failure.

Healthy Habits to Ensure Your Implants Last a Lifetime

As dental implants function just like natural teeth, it makes sense that they require the same care to last as long as possible, and if you’re new to getting dental implants, you’ll need to start building a few healthy habits to keep them at their best.

Proper Brushing Techniques

You’ll need to brush your dental implants at least twice a day. Use a soft-bristled brush with a small head that reaches the various crevices in your mouth to avoid damaging the implants. Similarly, avoid abrasive toothpaste options and use only gentle circular motions as you brush.

Flossing and Interdental Brushes

Flossing helps remove food particles and plaque from hard-to-reach areas, and not doing so makes bacteria buildup more likely, which leads to several oral health issues. You’ll want to floss at least once a day, slowly and gently, and with an unwaxed option. Interdental brushes are also helpful in removing plaque from between the implant and an adjacent tooth.

Non-Abrasive Oral Care Products

As mentioned above, anything too abrasive can scratch the implant or even loosen it if you’ve just had it put in place. Only use brushes with soft bristles and mild toothpaste options, and avoid very strong mouthwash as well.

Regular Dental Check-Ups

Getting regular dental check-ups should be something you want to get into the habit of doing, as they will provide opportunities to spot any issues before more serious problems develop, thereby helping you avoid implant complications.

Avoidance of Tobacco Products

Tobacco can prevent the right formation of bone around a dental implant, making it impossible for it to remain in place. It also causes inflammation, making it harder for the implantation area to heal. In addition, as tobacco also weakens your immune system, you’ll have a much harder time fighting off any infections in the area. Smoking also causes you to have a dry mouth, making it easier for bacteria to grow.

Balanced Diet and Hydration

Your overall health also contributes to the lifetime of your dental implants, and what you eat impacts your health. Go for foods with anti-inflammatory properties, like salmon, nuts, berries, and any whole-grain options. You want to maintain your bone health too, so you’ll have to consume foods rich in vitamin D, calcium, and other minerals.

To help the implant settle correctly after the procedure, choose foods that boost your immunity so you can heal better and faster.

Another crucial aspect of keeping your implants healthy is to drink lots of water. Dehydration causes dry mouth issues, which encourage the growth of bacteria.

Overcoming Challenges: Maintaining Good Oral Hygiene With Dental Implants

Having dental implants can present some challenges, especially cleaning them, which becomes even more complex if you have implant-supported dentures or bridgework done. The space might be too narrow for your toothbrush, and just using mouthwash won’t remove food particles that attract bacteria.

One of the best ways of managing this issue is to turn to using a combination of interdental brush and flossing (you can also use a water flosser).

Brush your teeth as you normally would for about two minutes, and don’t forget to brush around and under the implant crown. For many, an interdental brush offers the most control over the cleaning process. If you prefer to floss, use options made for crowns and bridges and floss right after brushing so that the floss can distribute toothpaste residue to the implant.

Getting Dental Implants in Boise, ID

For replacing missing teeth, dental implants are an excellent option. They offer the look of natural teeth and allow you to have the force of your full bite again. What kind of dentist offers tooth implants? The answer is a prosthodontist who specializes in performing restorative and cosmetic dental treatments. With that said, as you search for a dentist near Boise, ID, who offers dental implants, look no further than Staley Dental. Contact Staley Dental today to schedule an appointment.