Dental implants are one of the most reliable and long-lasting solutions for replacing missing teeth. They not only restore your smile but also provide the strength and function of natural teeth. With proper care, implants can last decades—or even a lifetime. However, just like natural teeth, they require consistent maintenance. Knowing the dos and don’ts of caring for dental implants can make all the difference in their longevity and your oral health.
Dos of Dental Implant Care
Do Brush and Floss Daily
Dental implants may not be natural teeth, but the surrounding gum tissue and bone are very much alive. Plaque buildup around implants can lead to gum inflammation or peri-implantitis (a condition similar to gum disease). Brushing at least twice a day and flossing once a day with implant-safe floss or interdental brushes will keep your implants healthy.
Do Visit Your Dentist Regularly
Routine dental visits are essential for monitoring the health of your implants. Your dentist will check for signs of bone loss, gum inflammation, or loosening. Professional cleanings also remove plaque and tartar that are difficult to reach at home.
Do Use the Right Tools
Soft-bristled toothbrushes and non-abrasive toothpaste are recommended for implants to avoid scratching their surface. Water flossers can also be an excellent addition to your daily routine, helping flush out bacteria from hard-to-reach areas.
Do Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle
Your overall health impacts the success of your implants. Eating a balanced diet, staying hydrated, and avoiding excessive sugar will help protect your gums and bone structure. Quitting smoking is also crucial, as it significantly increases the risk of implant failure.
Don’ts of Dental Implant Care
Don’t Use Your Teeth as Tools
Opening bottles, tearing packages, or chewing on pens can put unnecessary stress on implants. Just like natural teeth, implants can chip, crack, or loosen when misused. Always use the right tools instead of your teeth.
Don’t Skip Oral Hygiene
Even though implants can’t get cavities, neglecting oral hygiene can cause gum disease and bone loss around them. This can lead to implant failure if left untreated. Consistency is key to keeping your smile healthy.
Don’t Eat Hard or Sticky Foods Too Often
Biting down on ice, hard candies, or popcorn kernels can damage implants and surrounding restorations. Sticky foods like caramel can pull at crowns and create unnecessary strain. Moderation is fine, but avoid making these foods a daily habit.
Don’t Ignore Warning Signs
Bleeding gums, swelling, pain, or looseness around your implant should never be ignored. Early intervention can save your implant and prevent more serious complications. Contact your dentist immediately if you notice changes.
Dental implants are a valuable investment in your smile and oral health. By following these simple dos and don’ts—brushing daily, visiting your dentist, avoiding harmful habits, and paying attention to changes—you can ensure your implants remain strong and beautiful for years to come.
About the Practice
Do you want to replace any number of missing teeth? At Midtown Family Dentistry of Dallas, we have the gold standard for restoration with dental implants. We partner with the best oral surgeons in Dallas to ensure that you receive excellent treatment, and with convenient evening and weekend appointments available, you’re sure to find a time that works for you without putting your life on pause. Furthermore, we have flexible financing options to turn your dream of a new smile into reality. Schedule an appointment with us online or call (469) 529-6016.