Dental implants are the most advanced and stable tooth replacement option on the market. Since they fuse with the bone in the jaw through osseointegration, they are permanent and allow you to gain back at least 80% of your bite power. Though dental implants can last a lifetime, you have to take care of them properly and avoid bad habits that can damage them or cause them to fail. Read on to learn about six common bad habits that you should stop doing to make your dental implants last.
Habit #1: Bad Oral Hygiene
Though dental implants can’t get cavities, they still need to be brushed and flossed in the same way as your natural teeth. If you don’t brush your teeth twice per day and floss once per day, plaque buildups can lead to cavities in your remaining teeth. Left untreated, this can lead to gingivitis, the first stage of gum disease. If gingivitis progresses to a more serious form of gum disease called periodontitis, this can lead to tooth loss and implant failure
Habit #2: Too Much Sugar
When we eat sugar, this gives oral bacteria plenty to feed on. These bacteria release acids, which attack the tooth enamel and raise your chances of developing cavities and gum disease. Cut back on your sugar consumption to lessen the amount of damage done to your teeth.
Habit #3: Smoking or Chewing Tobacco
Smoking significantly raises your chances of getting oral cancer as well as a variety of other cancers. It also impairs your body’s ability to heal and dries out your mouth, which allows oral bacteria to thrive. Additionally, dental implants in the mouths of smokers are up to three times more likely to fail than in the mouths of nonsmokers.
Habit #4: Nail Biting
Chew on your nails can crack your natural teeth and your implants. It can also introduce bacteria into your mouth, which can damage your oral health. You should also avoid chewing on pencils, ice, or any other non-food items. Chew sugar-free gum instead to keep your mouth occupied.
Habit #5: Skipping Dental Checkups
Visit your dentist two times per year for checkups and cleanings. This will allow them to determine if you have developed any oral health issues that need treating and to do a deep clean of your teeth so no new problems that could jeopardize your implants develop.
Habit #6: Using Teeth as Tools
If you use your teeth or implants to open cans, bottles, and packages, this will create pressure on them that will weaken them over time. Make sure to have the correct tools on hand to avoid temptation.
To ensure that your investment lasts, avoid the above bad habits. By doing so, your smile will remain intact and as lovely as ever!
About the Practice
Wehrkamp Dentistry aims to give their Brandon patients the high-quality oral health care they deserve in the warm, inviting office. If you’re missing one or more teeth and looking to have them replaced with dental implants, they can go over the process with you and explain what bad habits to avoid to make your new smile lasts as long as possible. Call Wehrkamp Dentistry at (605) 582-6522 or visit their website to learn more about how to properly care for your dental implants or to schedule an appointment.