Dental implants are a popular solution to the problem of missing teeth because they are fixed permanently in place and look and function just like your natural teeth. To keep your smile looking beautiful and get the most benefit from your implant, however, following a proper oral hygiene routine is important. Here are some must-know tips for dental implant aftercare.
Continue your regular oral care routine
It’s important not to neglect your normal routine of brushing and flossing in the days and weeks after your implant procedure. While you should be careful to avoid brushing the implant area, you should still brush your other teeth, as well as your tongue and gums. Your dentist will be able to provide you with tips on making sure that you can continue to keep your mouth clean.
Avoid smoking
Not only is smoking cigarettes harmful to your oral health in general, but this habit is also particularly bad for new dental implants. The nicotine in cigarettes can slow down the healing process after your implant procedure and can make you more likely to encounter complications. If you’ve been looking to quit smoking or stop using other tobacco or nicotine-based products like e-cigs, this is the perfect opportunity.
Use mouthwash
While regular brushing and flossing remains the most important thing you can do to protect your oral health, using mouthwash daily can reduce plaque and help to minimize your risk of gum disease. Thus, many dentists recommend using it in your daily oral care routine. Ask your dentist to recommend a mouthwash that will work best for you.
Eat only soft foods
In the days after your dental implant procedure, it’s important to avoid eating hard foods such as popcorn, granola, and sunflower seeds. You should also avoid chewing gum and sticky foods such as candy. Instead, eat foods that won’t risk scratching your gums, such as mashed potatoes, pancakes, or scrambled eggs. Try to stick to your soft-food diet for at least a week following the procedure.
Cut down on sugary foods and drinks
Sugary foods and drinks are notoriously bad for your teeth, as the sugar can make you more likely to develop cavities. Once you have a dental implant, cutting down on your consumption of soda, candy, and other sugary treats can help to keep your oral health in good shape. Foods that contain a great deal of starch, such as bread, can also be hazardous for your teeth. Following a healthy diet is a great way to protect your teeth and gums and to ensure that your implants stay stable.
For dental implants in Huntington, Long Island, call LI Implant and Cosmetic Dentistry. Our commitment is to provide you with the highest level of service and help you achieve a bright, healthy smile you can be proud of. We offer a number of dental implant options for our patients, including same-day implants. To get started, contact our office to schedule a one-on-one consultation. We have taken all necessary precautions in order to keep our office safe during the pandemic.
