How to Maintain Healthy Implants
One of the best things about dental implants is that they’re easy to care for. They don’t require any special cleaning products and they’re never removed. However, it’s still important to keep a few factors in mind if you want your implants to stay healthy and beautiful for a lifetime.
Explore our guide for some valuable advice on maintaining dental implants.
After Surgery
The most important time in your implant procedure is right after surgery. At this stage, the surgical area is still healing as your implants integrate with your jawbone. It’s extremely important to follow Dr. Silvoy’s instructions carefully if you want your treatment to succeed.
These instructions include:
- Don’t eat hard or chewy foods. Stick to soft foods and clear liquids for a few days.
- Don’t spit, use a straw, or do anything else that puts pressure on the implant area while it’s healing.
- Rinse your implant area with salt water three times a day to remove bacteria and reduce inflammation.
- Avoid smoking or drinking alcohol for at least a few days
Long-Term Implant Care
After you’ve recovered from surgery, caring for your dental implants becomes a simple process. Here are some tips to keep in mind if you want your new smile to last:
Use Gentle Oral Care Products
Unlike other tooth replacements, you can brush and floss dental implants as you would your natural teeth. However, it’s best to use gentle cleaning products to prevent any possible damage. Dr. Silvoy recommends a soft bristled toothbrush and nylon floss, because they’re gentle on your teeth and gums. He also recommends avoiding whitening toothpaste and similar products, as they contain abrasive materials that can harm your implant.
Rinsing with mouthwash is a good way to remove any leftover bacteria and complete your oral hygiene routine. Stay away from brands that contain alcohol, since these will dry out your mouth.
Visit Dr. Silvoy for Regular Check-Ups
In addition to brushing and flossing every day, it’s essential to visit Dr. Silvoy at least twice a year to have your teeth cleaned. Besides helping to prevent the buildup of plaque and maintain your oral health, these visits allow Dr. Silvoy to examine your implants for any potential issues and address them right away.
If you have any questions about caring for your implants, don’t hesitate to contact our practice. Dr. Silvoy or a member of our experienced dental team will be happy to explain all instructions in detail and answer your questions.