25 / 01 / 2023
Dental Implant Care and Maintenance
The whole process of getting dental implants can be exciting and rewarding; from the first appointment to the end of your dental implant treatment in Birmingham, it’s a lot to take in. Therefore, after going through multiple Birmingham implant dentist appointments, you want to ensure you’re able to maintain your brand new teeth.
As far as the best dental implants in Birmingham are concerned, it’s not as simple as fitting and forgetting. Instead, good oral hygiene and regular check-ups are essential. Without this care, tartar and plaque can build up on the implants. Such a build-up of bacteria can result in multiple complications, including gum disease and peri-implantitis. If detected early, these conditions can be managed and treated, which is why regular check-ups are so important.
That said, how should you be caring for your dental implants daily?
Dental Implant Daily Care
While dental implants don’t come from real tooth roots, this doesn’t mean daily cleaning should be any less thorough. As previously mentioned, plaque can still sit on implant crowns and harbour bacteria. These bacteria are then allowed to multiply and release toxins to surrounding tissues and natural teeth.
To protect the surrounding bone of the implant, implant-specific floss may be required, as well as interdental toothbrushes. Aside from this, dental implants should be cleaned as natural teeth; since they’re permanently fixed, they won’t need to be removed for cleaning.
Check-ups with Dental Implants in Birmingham, UK
For the first few months after having your implants fitted, you may be asked to visit your dental implants clinic in Sutton Coldfield semi-frequently. For instance, you’ll likely be asked to return a couple of weeks after the initial fitting to ensure the implants are healing correctly. After implants have been fitted, the goal is to achieve osseointegration, which is where the implant fuses with the surrounding bone. This process can take several months and will need to be monitored regularly. Once your dental implants dentist in Sutton Coldfield is satisfied with the condition of your implant, you can return to your usual dental routine of visiting your dentist every six months.
The Importance of a Hygienist with Dental Implants in Sutton Coldfield
It’s a hygienist’s role to monitor the health of the tissues surrounding the implant, identifying potential problems as they do so. Moreover, hygienists are best equipped to make the right decisions when it comes to cleaning implants. They’re able to choose the most appropriate instruments and techniques so that damage isn’t inflicted on the implant. Similarly, regular hygienist appointments provide you with a reminder of how to clean and maintain your implants correctly.
Early Detection of Dental Implant Infection
If you suffer from bleeding gums, it could be the case that the gums around your implant are infected. This infection is called peri-implant mucositis, which is caused by bacteria build-up. When detected early on, this is reversible and treatable; however, if the plaque isn’t removed, this could result in peri-implantitis. This is a more severe condition, which can lead to bone loss and the loosening of the implant. That said, bleeding gums doesn’t necessarily indicate infection; it could simply mean you’re brushing too hard. If your gums do bleed regularly, you should arrange an appointment with your dentist to find the root of the issue.
If you want your dental implants to be successful in the long run, healthy lifestyle choices are vital. For instance, excessive drinking and smoking results in poorer oral health, which can impact the longevity of dental implants. Essentially, nicotine can constrict blood vessels, which limits blood flow to soft tissues and restricts blood vessels, impacting the immune response. As a result, smoking increases the risk that implants may not heal properly, hindering the long-term health of bones and gums.
Dental Implant Vulnerabilities
The stress we inflict upon our teeth is often unavoidable, from biting and chewing to jaw clenching. For the most part, teeth are well-equipped to handle these pressures; however, implants may not necessarily be as good at doing so. If you’re prone to clenching your teeth at night, it may be recommended that you wear a mouthguard when sleeping to prevent implants from coming loose.
Long-Term Success
Ultimately, dental implants are designed to be a long-term solution. As a result, your dentist will fit them to achieve this long-term success. Despite this, there are various factors in your control which will impact the longevity of your implants. Your commitment to your implant treatment doesn’t end at the fitting; it’s your responsibility to maintain good oral hygiene and a healthy lifestyle after this.
Become a Member of Sutton Dental & Implant Clinic
If you’re considering the route of dental implants, why not become a member of Sutton Dental & Implant Clinic? As a member, you’ll be entitled to discounted treatments and access to exclusive services.
Contact us to learn more.
