Dental implants have come a long way, and our patients are thrilled with the results. They can replace a problematic tooth or several teeth. They also do not require any special maintenance and can be cleaned just like your natural teeth.
Dental implants are a better option for replacing missing teeth. Instead of setting on your gums like removable dentures or using adjacent teeth as anchors like with a dental bridge, your replacement teeth are surgically anchored into your jawbone. The implant looks and feels like a natural tooth and lets you chew and talk like you did when your original tooth. When properly cared for, dental implants can last a lifetime. Additionally, dental implants can help improve your oral health by preventing bone loss. Read more about the benefits of dental implants.
Dental Tips to Protect your Implants
Implants are very sturdy, so you can eat all the foods you enjoy. Because of their low maintenance, there is nothing additional you have to do when you brush and floss your teeth. If you have healthy oral habits, you’ll find that implants will remain in good condition for years to come.
- Brush and floss regularly. With one tooth implant to a full mouth of implants, you still need to take care of your gums. This includes brushing them with an extra-soft toothbrush and flossing if possible.
- Dental implants have a 98% success rate, but occasionally, dental implants can fail. You should contact your dentist immediately if you experience swelling around the implant, it seems loose, the implant area hurts, or you notice pus from the gums and an unpleasant smell. The sooner you alert your dental provider, the less chance you have of losing the implant.
- After you have fully healed from the implant surgery, you can eat whatever you like. Until then, follow your doctor’s dietary instructions. Putting too much force on a new implant can weaken it and extend the time it takes for it to fuse with your jawbone.
- Keep your scheduled dental appointments. Dentists and their staff concentrate on helping patients like you maintain optimum oral health and avoid problems like gum disease, cancer, and TMJ disorder.
If you think dental implants are right for you, schedule a consultation with Webster Dental in Downers Grove today! Call us at 630.663.0554.