Dental implants are a fantastic way to replace your missing teeth because they look and function like the ones you’ve lost. They offer unique advantages over some other restorative treatments because they include a rod that’s inserted into your jawbone which anchors it in place. As a result, they look and function more like your natural pearly whites and are incredibly resilient. To make the most of them, however, you need to care for them properly. Many people don’t realize that some of their habits could negatively impact their dental implants. Keep reading to learn 3 changes you can make to keep yours in prime condition!
Change #1: Stop Smoking Cigarettes
Did you know that dental implants have a 95% success rate in patients under 40 years old, and 85% in those over 40 years? Unfortunately, if you’re a smoker, you can count on that success rate to be reduced by 6.5% to 20%. That’s because the nicotine in cigarettes and other tobacco products restricts the blood vessels in your gums, which are responsible for delivering nutrients to your pearly whites. It also decreases the oxygen content in your blood and reduces the flow.
Smoking can lead to failure whether you’ve just recovered from your surgical procedure or have had your dental implants for years. That’s more than enough reason to drop this unhealthy habit!
Change #2: Eat Healthy Foods
Your body’s different systems need a variety of vitamins and minerals to function most effectively, and your mouth is no exception. Eating a well-balanced diet ensures that you’re providing it with the nutrition it needs to avoid infection. If you’ve just had a dental implant placed and are in recovery, you’re going to want to heal as quickly as possible and without any unforeseen complications. Imagine having surgery just to develop an infection that causes your new restoration to fail! Try treating your body to leafy greens rich in calcium, or citrus fruits and colorful vegetables that contain vitamin C for gum health.
Change #3: Establish a Regular Routine
One major factor that influences the overall condition of your dental work is your oral hygiene regimen. You must brush and floss your teeth at least twice a day to avoid developing gum disease or tooth decay that can weaken your jaw over time. Your dental implant needs a supportive foundation, so if you don’t already have a routine in place, now’s the time to implement one! It’s also important to visit your dentist every 6 months for a checkup so that they can ensure everything is in good condition and that there are no potential problems to address.
Adjusting your lifestyle in these ways can positively impact your overall health and increase your dental implant’s longevity!
About the Practice
At Sedalia Dental, patients of all ages benefit from a husband-and-wife dental team that provides a wide range of services, including dental implants. They partner with a skilled network of oral surgeons and periodontists who ensure you receive the highest quality care for each step of the process. Their caring staff wants you to feel calm and comfortable and so will take the time to explain everything to you in detail to give you peace of mind. You’re welcome to request a consultation appointment on the website or by calling (614) 836-2222.