Bravery for Your Root Canal

Dental implants are among the most common methods used to treat missing teeth.

A cosmetic dentist inserts a specialized screw into the jawbone when placing an implant. Once the screw has fused with the bone, a crown is attached to restore the appearance and function of a patient's smile.

Quality dental implants can be costly, but if you learn to care for them properly, you can easily enjoy the restorative benefits implants offer for the rest of your life.

1. Brush and Floss Regularly

Some patients think that because a crown is made of porcelain, it doesn't need to be brushed as often as a natural tooth. This simply isn't true.

The area where the crown portion of a dental implant meets your gums can act as a collection point for food particles, plaque, and tartar. Allowing these contaminants to remain on the gum line for an extended period of time could result in the development of an infection that could lead to gum disease.

Regular brushing and flossing will keep the gum line clear, protecting your dental implant against infection over time.

2. Use the Right Toothpaste

You must select your toothpaste carefully after you have had a dental implant placed. Many toothpaste products contain ingredients that make them abrasive. Abrasive toothpastes are often used for whitening purposes.

Unfortunately, an abrasive toothpaste has the potential to cause serious damage to your dental implant.

The porcelain crown portion of your dental implant can easily be scratched or damaged by abrasive toothpaste. A damaged crown can weaken the integrity of your implant, making it difficult to eat certain foods and leaving you susceptible to infection.

Ask your cosmetic dentist to recommend a toothpaste that will protect both your implant and your natural teeth in the future.

3. Schedule Regular Dental Visits

You must continue to visit your dentist regularly after having a dental implant placed.

Routine cleanings give your cosmetic dentist the opportunity to evaluate the condition of your implant over time. Any problems with the integrity of the implant can be identified early, preventing infection from spreading to nearby teeth.

A cosmetic dentist can also remove any residual food particles, plaque, or tartar that you may leave behind when you brush and floss.

Regular dental visits can help extend the life of your dental implants well into the future.

Work closely with your dentist to care for your dental implants properly.

If you have more questions, contact a local cosmetic dentistry office.