Dental implants are a successful treatment choice for missing teeth, known for their durability and natural appearance. They are the closest alternative to natural teeth and can be used for a lifetime. What ensures their long-term durability is regular cleaning and maintenance.
A Brief Overview of Implants
Dental implants are artificial teeth that are placed in place of missing teeth, providing both a natural appearance and a feeling similar to real teeth. They are typically used for individuals who have lost one or more permanent teeth due to injury, disease, decay, or other conditions. Additionally, in cases of total tooth loss, the “all-on-four” technique offers a renewed prosthetic dental experience.
Cleaning Dental Implants
The primary reason for regularly cleaning dental implants is to maintain oral health. Over time, they can accumulate plaque and bacteria. If not cleaned, plaque and bacteria can lead to gum disease and implant failure. Another reason for cleaning your implants is to preserve their appearance. Plaque and bacteria can cause discoloration of the implant surface, making regular cleaning essential. Just like our natural teeth, implants require proper cleaning and maintenance.
How to Clean Dental Implants
In your routine of brushing your teeth twice a day, you should also brush your dental implants with particular care. Use gentle motions and brush the area where the teeth meet the gums with short, back-and-forth movements.
During the first month after getting the implant, avoid using mouthwash and abrasive toothpaste, as they can affect the surgical area. Basic care and sensitivity to cleanliness will suffice in the first month.
For some dental structures, you might need to use special brushes to clean between your teeth. You can include these types of brushes, as recommended by your dentist, in your hygiene routine.
Flossing is also used to clean between implant teeth, just as it is used for natural teeth.
Additionally, by attending regular dental check-ups, where the health of your implants is monitored, you ensure the necessary care through dental cleaning every six months.
Failure to clean implants regularly and adequately can cause bad breath. Plaque and bacteria can also affect gum health, leading to gum disease and even implant failure. Just as gum disease can lead to tooth loss in natural teeth, it can cause implants to loosen and fall out of their sockets.
Implant failure is a rare occurrence. It can be prevented and managed with proper oral hygiene.
How Often Should You Visit the Dentist for Dental Implants?
You should visit your dentist at least twice a year. By visiting every six months, or sooner if necessary, you can ensure the early detection of gum disease. In addition, clinical dental cleaning is important to maintain hygiene and oral health.
Just as dental implants resemble natural teeth in structure, they also offer a long-lasting and healthy experience when given the same level of care.
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