
Many experts consider dental implants the ideal way to replace missing teeth because of their unique advantages. They are the only restorations that include a titanium rod embedded directly into your jaw, allowing them to function as sturdy stand-alone structures.
Typically, you can expect your new tooth to last 20+ years, but that’s only if you care for it correctly. Many patients don’t realize that some of their daily habits might hurt their prosthetics. Continue reading to learn 3 lifestyle changes you can make to support your dental implants!
Change #1: Establish a Routine
If you don’t already have a consistent at-home dental hygiene routine in place, now’s an ideal time to get one started. Dental implants are indeed quite resilient, but they’re not invincible. The number one leading cause of their failure is a form of gum disease that can affect the surrounding connective and bone tissues, called peri-implantitis.
Thankfully, regularly brushing and flossing your teeth twice daily removes plaque and bacteria that contribute to oral issues like cavities or periodontal problems. Be careful not to press so deeply into the gum pocket around your prosthetic because you might damage the soft-tissue seal that helps hold it in place.
Change #2: Eat Wholesome Foods
Dental implants are so durable that they have very few dietary restrictions. Typically, your dentist will ask you to avoid overly hard or sticky foods that could chip your restoration or yank it out of place. However, if you eat too many overly sugary foods, you could develop tooth decay. If left unaddressed, this condition can spread to your jawbone and eventually weaken it enough that it can no longer support your teeth.
Eating foods that support your oral health can help preserve your prosthetics. For instance, dairy products like milk, yogurts, and cheese contain calcium for strong teeth and bones. Also, many citrus fruits and leafy greens are full of vitamin C to support your gum tissue.
Change #3: Quit Smoking
Did you know that studies estimate that the chance of dental implant failure for people who regularly smoke is 10 times higher than those who don’t? This is because cigarettes, vapes, and other tobacco products contain nicotine, which restricts your blood’s oxygen levels and flow. As a result, your body can’t deliver essential nutrients and infection-fighting cells to your mouth to heal effectively after your procedure. That means smokers are at a greater risk of developing infections or other issues that could damage or destabilize their implant.
If you’ve struggled to find the motivation to make these healthy changes in your life after tooth loss, getting dental implants might be just what you need to convince you!
About the Author
Dr. Gregory Martin has 20+ years of experience helping people of all ages build and maintain their healthiest, happiest smiles. He earned Doctor of Dental Surgery from the Howard University College of Dentistry in Washington, D.C., where he graduated second in his class. Now, he’s an active member of prestigious organizations like the American Dental Association and the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, so you can trust that you’re in good hands. He partners with the best oral surgeons to place your implants then provides a beautiful, lifelike restoration to rebuild your grin. You can request an appointment on the website or call (817) 481-1041.