Getting dental implants is an exciting step forward that gives you the confidence to chew comfortably and interact with others confidently. They can last a lifetime with proper care, but what does that mean exactly? At Antelope Creek Dentistry, we want to ensure your implants serve your smile for decades to come. Here are some tips for maintaining dental implants and getting the most value from your investment:
Implants Daily Cleaning
Maintaining implant health starts with thorough daily cleaning:
- Brush twice daily using a soft-bristled toothbrush. Hard bristles can scratch the implant surface and irritate the surrounding gum tissue.
- Floss daily around your implants using special floss or floss threaders that can clean around the restoration and beneath the gumline where bacteria love to hide.
- Consider a water flosser for cleaning hard-to-reach areas around implants. These devices can flush out debris from implant surfaces more effectively than traditional flossing alone.
- Use low-abrasive toothpaste without harsh ingredients that might scratch the implant crown or irritate gum tissue.
Professional Implant Care Tips
Routine services with your dentist in Lincoln, NE, are essential to long-term implant success:
- Attend regular checkups every six months so we can check your implant's condition.
- Schedule professional cleanings with our hygienists who use specialized instruments designed to maintain implants.
- Get periodic x-rays as recommended by your dentist to monitor bone levels around your implant, ensuring it remains solidly in place.
Lifestyle Considerations
Certain habits can impact implant longevity:
- Avoid tobacco products as they significantly increase the risk of implant failure and complications.
- Resist biting down on hard or crunchy foods that could place excess force on the implant.
- Use a nightguard if recommended to protect implants from grinding forces during sleep.
Do you have other questions about your dental implants in Lincoln, NE? Antelope Creek Dentistry has two convenient locations in Lincoln on Normal Blvd and 40th St, making maintaining your implants simple and accessible.