Once you receive a new dental implant in Rockville, MD, that implant has the potential to last a lifetime.
With the proper care and maintenance, your dental implant will stick with you and protect your smile for decades to come. But what exactly does that care and maintenance look like?
Cleaning and Protecting Your Dental Implant
Luckily, keeping your dental implants healthy is pretty straightforward. Although your dental implant itself won't get a cavity, the surrounding teeth can, and you can also develop gum disease that threatens its stability. For this reason, you need to keep your teeth and the spaces between your teeth clean to protect your dental implant.
All it takes is a few minutes each day if you want to give your implants the best chance at success.
Caring for dental implants in Rockville, MD involves:
- Brushing your teeth at least twice per day as usual
- Choosing a soft-bristled, non-abrasive toothbrush to clean your implant
- Flossing once each day, taking care to floss extra well around your implant
- Using specialty floss designed for dental bridges and implants
- Periodically adding a water flosser into your dental routine to discourage the build-up of plaque
- Routinely visiting your Rockville dentist for cleanings and exams
Preventing Gum Disease
One of the biggest threats to your dental implants is gum disease. Your implants have a significantly higher chance of failing if your gums aren’t healthy, so preventing periodontal problems should be your first line of defense.
Daily brushing and flossing are vital in keeping your gums healthy and happy. You should also avoid smoking, use a toothbrush with soft bristles, always choose fluoride toothpaste, and visit your dentist right away if you notice your gums looking inflamed or changing to a dark red color.
Replace a Missing Tooth in Rockville, MD
If you have missing teeth, we can fill the gaps in your smile with dental implants. Once you have your implants, you can protect them and ensure they last a lifetime by maintaining effective oral hygiene habits. Brushing, flossing, and going to the dentist often will give your dental implants the best shot at being successful for life!
