Dental implants are a highly reliable form of tooth replacement that can potentially last a lifetime. That said, the care that you give them matters. If you want your dental implants to last as long as possible, then you should avoid any behaviors that could damage them. Below are 5 examples of bad habits that people with dental implants should stay away from.
1. Chewing Your Fingernails and Other Hard Objects
Some people have a tendency to start chewing on their fingernails, pen tips, and other hard objects without realizing it. While dental implants are known for their durability, they can still be damaged if you repeatedly put too much pressure on them. Thus, you should make a conscious effort to avoid biting down on hard objects in order to protect your replacement teeth.
2. Overindulging on Sugary Foods
Since dental implants can’t develop cavities, you might assume that sugar won’t cause any problems for them. Unfortunately, this is not the case; excessive sugar consumption can increase your risk of developing gum disease, which is a leading cause of dental implant failure. While there’s no need to completely give up sugar, it’s best to reduce your exposure to it. Try substituting sugary snacks with fresh fruits and other foods that can promote gum health.
3. Tearing Open Packages With Your Teeth
Do you often use your teeth to tear open a stubborn package? While this might seem like a good way to save time, it could end up unnecessarily damaging your dental implants. Thus, instead of putting your replacement teeth at risk, you should find some scissors or another appropriate tool to do the job.
4. Skipping Your Oral Hygiene Routine
If you don’t brush and floss as often as you should, plaque and tartar could easily build up around your dental implants, eventually leading to gum disease. On top of that, you could also be at a higher risk of developing cavities in your remaining teeth. Keep your entire smile safe – dental implants and all – by brushing at least two times a day for at least two minutes at a time while also flossing daily.
5. Skipping Your Dental Checkups
Do you tend to forget to visit your dentist every six months? This is a habit that you’ll definitely want to change after getting dental implants. Your dentist can help identify any problems that might be developing around your dental implant posts and address them before they lead to any major harm. They can also thoroughly clean your smile to get rid of plaque and tartar that you might not have been able to remove on your own. In short, regular dental visits are essential for keeping your dental implants in excellent condition.
About the Author
Dr. Svetlana Christin is a graduate of the Boston University School of Dental Medicine. She received her implant dentistry training from the New York Implant Institute, and she is proud to offer dental implants to patients who are missing any number of teeth. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Christin at Danvers Aesthetic Family Dentistry, visit her website or call (978) 774-0725.