Did you recently suffer a blow to the face, or health issue, or some other problem that left you with a gap in your smile? If so, you are likely thinking about how to replace it. For many dentists and patients, dental implants are the answer. Implants are small screws that replace the roots of missing teeth. A restoration, such as a dental crown, is then attached to them to complete the look. As popular as this treatment is, how safe is it? keep reading to learn about the safety of dental implant placement and what you can do to make your implants last.
Are Dental Implants Safe?
One of the main reasons why patients are so interested in dental implants is because they have a high success rate. At 95%, issues with the procedure are uncommon. Even so, there are still some problems that can develop, especially if you don’t take good care of your restored smile.
Cavities and gum disease are two oral health issues that can be caused by improper hygiene. Though they are both fairly easy to treat in their early stages, severe tooth decay or periodontal disease can lead to additional tooth loss. Your surrounding teeth will start shifting to fill in the gaps, making them become weaker over time. Eventually, they may break or fall out.
It’s also worth noting that there is a small chance of oral surgery leading to a few serious conditions. These include allergic reactions, bleeding disorders, or infections.
5 Ways to Care for Your Dental Implants
Fortunately, caring for your smile post-op is fairly easy. This includes:
- Brush your teeth – Do this twice per day. Brush for two minutes each time. Use a toothbrush with soft bristles and fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss your smile – Do this nightly to lessen your risk of decay and gum disease by removing food particles and plaque from between your teeth.
- Avoid bad oral habits – Don’t use your teeth as tools, and eat too many sweets, smoke cigarettes, drink alcohol excessively, or any other habits that can harm your smile.
- Eat a balanced diet – This includes lean meats, nuts, fish, low-fat or fat-free dairy products, and fresh, crisp fruits and veggies.
- Visit your dentist – See your dentist biannually for cleanings and dental checkups to ensure that your implants and the rest of your smile are in good condition.
About the Practice
Barton City area patients who are searching for a skilled dental team don’t need to look any further than Drs. Steven Rodriguez, Jeffrey Sevener, and Hana Gadalla at Healthy Smiles Dental Care. With treatments like dental implants to replace missing teeth, they can help you fill in your smile for a beautiful, healthy beam you’ll be excited to show off. If you are interested in learning more about dental implants or are ready to set up an appointment with Healthy Smiles Dental Care, you can visit their website or call their office at (989) 736-7000 to get started.