Good oral hygiene is important for everyone, but for people with dental implants, it is even more important. A dental implant procedure is an alternative to dental bridges or dentures for people who are missing teeth. They can be used with dental crowns, dental bridges or dentures to replace one missing tooth or several missing teeth.
What Is A Dental Implant?
A dental implant is a titanium screw that is surgically placed into the jawbone and used to anchor prosthetic teeth. Implants are designed to function much like the roots of your own natural teeth, and they can last for many years. The success rate is extremely high, particularly when patients follow post-procedure instructions.
Oral Hygiene
Accumulation of plaque or tartar around your dental implant can irritate the gums. Gingivitis, which is caused by poor dental hygiene, can inflame the gums around the implant. If the condition advances to the underlying structures, it can affect the bone that anchors the dental implant and ultimately lead to your implant failing. Implant failure is more likely to occur in those who have poor dental hygiene, certain health conditions or who smoke heavily.
Patients with implants need to establish a conscientious habit of effective oral hygiene. Daily removal of bacterial plaque from teeth surfaces through brushing and flossing greatly reduce the risk of infection and subsequent inflammation. It is also important to monitor the condition of your gums, especially around implants. If you begin to notice bleeding, red or swollen gums, or other signs of possible gum disease, you should contact your dentist as soon as possible for an assessment.
If you would like more information on hygiene practices with implants, please contact Maple Avenue Family Dentistry today to schedule a consultation at 401-237-4038.
