Dental Implant Aftercare in Sharon, MA
How to Ensure the Longevity of Your Dental Implants
Dental implants have become a popular choice for people looking to replace missing teeth. Not only do they look and feel like natural teeth, but they also provide a long-lasting solution that can improve your oral health and overall well-being. However, like any other dental procedure, it’s essential to take proper care of your dental implants to ensure their longevity. Our Sharon, MA, implant dentist, Dr. Alla Agamov, provides advice on dental implant aftercare and keeping your oral health in top shape post-implant placement.
Tips for Dental Implant Aftercare
Brush and Floss Regularly
Just like natural teeth, dental implants require regular brushing and flossing to keep them clean and healthy. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste to avoid scratching the implant surface. Floss gently around the implant, making sure to remove any debris or plaque buildup. If you’re not sure about the best technique for brushing and flossing your implants, ask your dentist for guidance.
Avoid Hard or Sticky Foods
Dental implants are sturdy, but they can still be damaged by hard or sticky foods. Avoid biting down on hard objects, like ice, and be cautious with sticky foods, like caramel, that can stick to the implant and cause damage. Instead, choose softer, healthier options like fruits and cooked vegetables.
Wear Mouthguards
Protecting your dental implants with mouthguards is essential if you grind your teeth or play sports. Grinding your teeth can damage the implant and the surrounding bone, while sports-related injuries can knock out or damage the implant. A custom-made mouthguard can provide the necessary protection, so talk to your dentist about getting one made.
Quit Smoking
Smoking can increase the risk of implant failure and can slow down the healing process after implant placement. If you smoke, talk to your dentist about ways to quit or reduce your smoking. Not only will quitting improve the health of your implants, but it will also benefit your overall health.
Physical Activity
After the dental implant procedure, patients should avoid strenuous physical activity and exercise for a few days. Strenuous activities can lead to bleeding, swelling, and other complications that can negatively affect the healing process. It is recommended to rest and take it easy for the first few days after the procedure to ensure proper healing.
Medication Use
To prevent infections and reduce pain and swelling, patients may need to take antibiotics or other medications after the dental implant procedure. Dr. Agamov will prescribe the appropriate medication for each patient based on their individual needs. It’s important to follow the prescribed medication schedule and dosage to ensure the best possible outcome of the procedure. If you experience any adverse reactions to the medication, contact Dr. Agamov immediately.
Visit Your Dentist Regularly
Regular dental check-ups are important for successful dental implant aftercare. Your dentist can examine your implants and identify any potential issues before they become more serious. Additionally, your dentist can provide professional cleaning to help remove any plaque or bacteria that may have accumulated around your implants.
Signs of Implant Failure & Complications
Another important facet of dental implant aftercare is to recognize when your implants are having problems. Signs of implant failure or complications you should look out for include the following:
- Pain or discomfort around the implant site
- Swelling or redness in the gums around the implant
- Loosening of the implant, which can cause difficulty biting or chewing
- Infections, which can cause a buildup of pus around the implant
- Nerve damage, which can result in numbness or tingling in the surrounding teeth, gums, lips, or chin
If you notice any of these symptoms or are experiencing any other issues with your dental implants, it’s important to contact your implant dentist right away for a consultation. With prompt attention, many complications can be addressed and resolved before they become more serious.
Frequently Asked Questions
It depends on the severity of the gum disease. Your implant dentist will evaluate your condition and determine if dental implants are a safe option for you. In some cases, gum disease must be treated before dental implant placement.
While dental implants aren’t susceptible to tooth decay like natural teeth, they can still be damaged by plaque buildup. It’s important to practice good oral hygiene, including brushing and flossing regularly, to prevent plaque buildup and ensure the longevity of your dental implants.
Yes, dental implants can become infected if they aren’t properly cared for. Signs of infection include redness, swelling, and pain around the implant site. If you suspect your implant may be infected, contact your dentist right away.
If you notice that your dental implant feels loose, contact your dentist as soon as possible. A loose implant can be a sign of implant failure or a problem with the implant placement. Your dentist will need to examine the implant and determine the cause of the problem. In some cases, the implant may need to be removed and replaced.
Call Dr. Agamov For Tips on Proper Dental Implant Aftercare & Maintenance
If you have dental implants or are considering getting them, it’s important to take proper care of them to ensure their longevity. By following the tips and advice provided by Dr. Agamov and regularly visiting for check-ups, you can help maintain the health of your implants.Â
If you have any concerns or questions about your dental implants, don’t hesitate to contact our Sharon dental office by dialing (781) 784-8435 or request an appointment with Dr. Agamov by clicking the button below. We serve new and returning patients from Sharon and surrounding areas such as Stoughton, Foxborough, and Canton, MA. Remember, a little care goes a long way in ensuring the success of your dental implant investment.Â