Dental Implant Maintenance
Tuscumbia, AL
 Dental implants are the most popular and effective alternative for tooth replacements. However, without proper care and hygiene, dental implants can develop problems, just like natural teeth.
These problems range from issues like bad breath to serious dental health issues such as gum disease and implant failure. At Singing River Dentistry, we not only perform implant installation but also offer dental implant maintenance services.
Our experienced dentists are at hand to help you with regular cleanings, bite adjustments, and implant restorations, among other dental care services.
What Are Dental Implants and What Do They Do?
Dental implants are artificial teeth surgically attached to the jawbone to act as tooth replacements. Most implants are made from titanium, making them stronger and more long-lasting than alternatives like dentures.
Beyond replacing lost teeth, dental implants also help to preserve jawbone health. This is especially important as the jawbone requires constant stimulation, which naturally comes from the pressure of chewing.
When you lose a tooth, that stimulation disappears, and the bone begins to weaken and shrink. This can cause issues such as sunken cheeks and chewing problems. Dental implants mimic the function of natural teeth roots and provide much-needed stimulation and pressure to the jawbone. Additionally, they are used to support other dental prosthetics like crowns, bridges, and dentures.
Who Are Ideal Candidates for Dental Implants?
Dental implants are not for everyone. Ideal candidates must be in good health and have strong jawbone density. Jawbone health is particularly important, as implants need it for support.
Since dental implants require surgery, people with medical conditions that can pose risks during surgery may not qualify. These include diabetes, cancer, and any auto-immune disease.
What Causes Dental Implants to Deteriorate?
While dental implants are designed to last for decades, several factors can affect their lifespan and function. Below are the most common causes of complications with implants:
Poor Oral Hygiene
Without regular brushing and flossing, bacteria can accumulate around the implants. This can lead to inflammation, infections, and, in a worst-case scenario, gum disease. Gum disease can lead to implant failure over time as weakened gums cannot properly support implants.
If you ignore follow-up appointments, it may take considerably longer to recover fully. The longer the healing process takes, the higher the risks of infection and other complications.
Your dentist will recommend a personalized schedule for follow-up appointments based on your circumstances. This can range from once a month to a couple of times yearly.
Smoking
Smoking can also affect your dental implants. According to the American Dental Association (ADA), cigarette smoking can lead to gingival recession, gum disease, and mucosal lesions.
While these problems do not directly affect dental implants, they can slow healing after implant surgery. Further, complications like mucosal lesions and gum disease can significantly increase the risk of infections around implant sites.
Bone Loss
Bone loss around the implant can also cause it to become loose over time. Just like natural teeth, implants need strong bone structure to remain stable. When bones deteriorate and weaken, the implant may collapse and potentially require re-installation. Apart from tooth loss, jawbone deterioration may also occur due to infection.
Medical Factors
Your implants may also fail due to factors outside your control, such as implant misalignment. Misaligned implants often lead to uneven pressure when biting or chewing. This not only makes chewing uncomfortable but may also cause damage to the implant and surrounding teeth.
Caring for New Implants
Once you get your dental implants, you need to give them special care to hasten the healing process. The healing process occurs in two phases.
| • |
The first and most vital phase is the initial healing period, which takes a few weeks after surgery. During this time, it is essential to follow the instructions from your dentist and take the prescribed pain medication. You may also have to avoid hard foods, alcohol, and sugary foods.
|
| • |
The second phase of the healing process is called osseointegration. It often starts once the surgical wounds heal and you start regaining your normal dental functions like chewing. The osseointegration process culminates with the fusion of the implant to the jawbone, which can take up to a year.
|
| • |
During these early days, your dental maintenance routine needs to be very thorough. Brush at least twice daily using a special interdental brush and non-abrasive toothpaste. Also, avoid hot, spicy, or acidic foods, as they can irritate the implant site. You will also want to stay away from hard snacks like candy, as they can cause undue pressure on the implants.
|
| • |
Depending on the nature of your dental implants, your dentist may advise you to avoid all strenuous activities. These include heavy lifting, swimming, running, and contact sports. Physical activities increase blood flow, which can cause bleeding at the implant site. Excessive movement or pressure can also cause the implant to shift, potentially leading to complications or implant failure.
|
| • |
In the first few months after the dental procedure, your dentist may recommend sleeping with a custom-made night mouth guard to protect your implants. The night mouth guard will help prevent damage to the implant if you grind or clench your teeth at night. It will also help to relax your jaw muscles, effectively reducing the tension that would otherwise affect the positioning of the implant. |
Long-Term Implant Maintenance
Caring for your dental implants does not end after they heal. It is a lifelong endeavor. For the most part, practicing good dental hygiene and closely monitoring your gum health is enough.
Additionally, be on the lookout for any movements in your implants. If they start feeling loose, or you feel discomfort when chewing, see your dentist immediately to rule out any serious complications.
Learn More About Dental Implants
Commit to Proper Implant Care Today!
The key to keeping your dental implants in great shape is to observe proper oral hygiene and get professional dental care. If you are experiencing problems with your implants or have some oral health concerns you need to have addressed, contact Singing River Dentistry. Our dentists are experts in implant installation, restoration, and routine maintenance. To book an appointment, give us a call at 256-712-2240. |
