Investing in dental implants is one of the most effective ways to restore your smile and oral functionality. But the key to preserving that investment lies in proper dental implant care. At Norwood Dentistry, we specialize in advanced implant procedures and personalized aftercare, helping patients in Norwood enjoy healthy, long-lasting smiles.
Whether you're already enjoying your Norwood dental implants or are preparing for your first dental implant consultation, this guide will help you understand how to protect your implants for the long haul.
How to Clean Dental Implants Effectively
Daily maintenance is crucial in extending the dental implant lifespan. Here’s how to properly clean around your implants:
Brushing and Flossing
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to prevent scratching the implant surface.
- Brush twice daily, using a non-abrasive toothpaste for implants.
- Floss around your implant crowns with unwaxed floss or an implant-specific floss.
- Consider using a water flosser, especially if you have multiple implants or limited dexterity.
Rinsing
Choose a non-alcoholic mouthwash that is antibacterial to support gum health with implants without causing dryness or irritation.
Do Implants Need Special Care?
Yes, they do. While implants are not vulnerable to cavities, they can still fail due to peri-implantitis, a gum disease-like infection. Proper care helps in avoiding implant failure and ensures the longevity of your restoration.
Regular Dental Visits Are a Must
Visiting your dentist regularly ensures professional cleanings and early detection of any issues. At Norwood Dentistry, we recommend visits every 6 months.
During these visits, we check for:
- Inflammation or gum recession
- Implant mobility
- Bone loss around the implant
- General oral hygiene practices
Book a dental checkup today to stay on top of your implant health.
Best Diet for Dental Implants
What you eat directly impacts your implants:
- Avoid hard foods like ice or unpopped popcorn kernels.
- Stay away from sticky candies and sugary snacks.
- Eat a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D to promote bone health.
Smoking and Implants: A Risky Mix
Smoking is one of the top reasons for early implant failure. It restricts blood flow, hinders healing, and can cause implant-supported crowns to loosen or fail. For the best outcomes, quitting smoking before and after your implant procedure is essential.
Recognizing Signs of Trouble
Be proactive. Here are early warning signs:
- Red or swollen gums around the implant
- Persistent bad breath or taste
- Pain when chewing
- A loose feeling in your implant
If you notice any of these, contact us immediately for an evaluation.
Choosing the Right Products for Dental Implant Care
Toothpaste
Use a non-abrasive toothpaste designed for sensitive gums and implants. Avoid whitening agents, baking soda, or charcoal-based pastes, which can be too harsh.
Brushes & Floss
Specialized implant brushes and floss can make cleaning easier and more effective.For a professional perspective on implant maintenance and home care techniques, the Ontario Dental Hygienists’ Association offers this helpful guide on implant therapy and care. It provides dental professionals and patients with insight into post-operative hygiene and the tools needed for long-term success.
Norwood Dentistry’s Commitment to Implant Longevity
We’ve helped countless patients in the Norwood area with affordable dental implants, full-mouth restorations, and customized implant solutions. From state-of-the-art dental implant technology to post-op care, our team ensures your treatment is successful long after your procedure.
Explore more about our Dental Implants services and why we’re considered the best dentist for implants in Norwood.
Final Thoughts
Proper dental implant care is simple yet powerful. With daily attention, regular dental visits, healthy habits, and expert guidance from Norwood Dentistry, your implants can truly last a lifetime.