If you are the recent recipient of dental implants or are just considering the procedure and are wondering what to expect when it comes to caring for your new teeth, we’re here to shed some light on how to properly care for dental implants.
Dental Implants Replacing Missing Teeth
The good news is that caring for your implants is not much different than caring for your natural teeth. The primary differences in care will arise based on what type of tooth replacement option is attached to your implant. In and of themselves, dental implants serve as a base to permanently support another structure in your mouth that will take the place of a damaged or missing tooth. The implant is comprised of a small titanium rod that is surgically implanted into the jawbone. As it heals, the surrounding bone structure integrates with the titanium post to create a secure base for the replacement apparatus that will be attached to the post, much in the same way as a tooth’s root keeps a tooth firmly secured to the jawbone.
If a single tooth is being replaced over the implanted post, the end result is not much different than having a dental crown. If, on the other hand, the implant is being used to support a span of multiple missing teeth, the replacement apparatus will be more like a dental bridge or denture that is permanently attached to the mouth.
The type of care needed will depend in part on what type of tooth replacement is used to take the place of your missing tooth or teeth. In general, however, care will not differ much from the type of care required to keep natural teeth and gums healthy. Twice daily brushing is recommended as well as daily flossing, for starters. Your dentist may recommend a particular type of brush, flosser or other appliance for keeping teeth and gums healthy and getting in small spaces left between the replacement tooth/teeth and the gumline.
Other than that, there is not usually much else you have to do. Of course, you should stick to a schedule of regular preventative care appointments during which your dentist will ensure that your oral health remains good. Professional cleanings and x-rays typically take place at these appointments, as well as a general check by the dentist that all is as it should be. This helps detect small problems before they become more major issues and should not be avoided.
Since replacement teeth are made of a material that is different than the natural tooth structure, they are not subject to the same culprits that can harm natural teeth and lead to tooth decay. However, care still needs to be taken to ensure that the surrounding natural teeth remain healthy, as well as the underlying gums and bone. Proper oral hygiene and routine dental visits can help ensure that your dental implants last for a long time, potentially for a lifetime.
For more information about dental implant care, contact Park Dental Care in Queens at 718-274-1515.
