Dental implants have allowed millions of patients to replace their lost teeth with beautifully lifelike restorations that look just like the real thing, and they represent an investment in your oral health that you will undoubtedly want to protect. While these prosthetic devices are remarkably durable, they are not indestructible and can be compromised if they are abused or do not receive proper care. Here are a few bad habits to quit so your dental implants can last for as long as possible.
Don’t Sully Your Dental Implants with Smoke
Tobacco use in any form is utterly horrible for your oral health in a wide variety of ways, but it is of particular concern for patients who have recently received dental implants. The gums harden to defend themselves when exposed to the noxious chemicals in tobacco, and having to do this frequently will gradually exhaust them and cause them to recede. Nicotine, the addictive chemical in tobacco, also has the nasty side effect of causing blood vessels to constrict, which can hinder your gums’ ability to heal and fight infections.
It’s ideal to quit tobacco completely before receiving dental implants. However, your dentist will probably recommend that you abstain from smoking or chewing for at least several weeks before implant surgery and for several months afterward.
Don’t Chisel Away at Your Implants by Abusing Them
Like your natural teeth, dental implants are only to be used for smiling and chewing edible items. If you use your smile to open packages or bottles or chew on non-food items such as ice, toothpicks, or writing utensils, this constitutes abuse that can wear away the structure of your restorations or even cause them to come loose and fail. Abstaining from using your teeth as tools will help you preserve both your natural and artificial pearly whites.
Don’t Drown Your Dental Implants with Alcohol
Alcohol is acidic enough to weaken your dental enamel and irritate your gum tissue, and it also interferes with your body’s natural healing process. Drinking during the weeks before or the months after receiving dental implants can complicate your recovery and set your appliances up for early failure. It’s best to refrain from drinking during this period and only drink moderately if at all after you have recovered.
Dental implants can last for life if they receive excellent care. With proper oral hygiene, regular dental visits, and smart eating decisions, you can keep your grin in gorgeous shape for as long as possible.
About the Author
Dr. Nicholas Baioni earned his dental degree at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center and refines his skills further with continuing education coursework. He is proud to be a member of the American Dental Association and the Arkansas Dental Association. His office in Pea Ridge offers general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry as well as implant services. To schedule your dental implant consultation, contact his office on the web or dial (479) 370-2239.