After undergoing dental implant surgery, proper care is essential to ensure their long-term success. With consistent maintenance, dental implants can last a lifetime. Follow these guidelines, along with your dentist’s instructions, to protect your investment and maintain a healthy smile:
Maintain Excellent Oral Hygiene
- Brush and floss thoroughly at least twice a day to remove plaque that can lead to periodontal disease, one of the primary causes of implant failure.
- Discuss with your dentist the use of special toothbrushes or oral irrigation devices to clean around the implants effectively and reduce plaque buildup.
Schedule Regular Dental Visits
- During the first year after your implant surgery, visit your dentist approximately every three months.
- Afterward, switch to routine checkups every six months to ensure the implants and surrounding tissues remain healthy.
Follow Denture Care Instructions
- If you wear an implant-supported denture, seek advice from your dentist on the correct placement and removal techniques to prevent damaging the implants.
Avoid Excessive Pressure
- Refrain from chewing on hard foods or objects that could harm the implant site.
- For patients who grind or clench their teeth (bruxism), consider using a custom-fitted night guard to protect the implants from unnecessary strain.
Be Aware of Potential Risks
While the success rate of dental implants is high, failures can occur due to infection, fracture, or damage to the surrounding nerves, teeth, or blood vessels. Vigilance and proactive care can help mitigate these risks.
By maintaining excellent oral hygiene, attending regular dental visits, and protecting your implants from undue stress, you can enjoy a lifetime of complication-free, beautiful, and healthy smiles.
Do not wait any longer. Book your appointment now and achieve the smile you have always wanted. Dr. Brooks is accepting new patients from Louisville and the surrounding area.