While dental implants have the look and durability of natural teeth, they are comprised of materials that have slightly different care requirements. For the longevity and appearance of your implant, proper cleaning and maintenance should be an integral part of your daily brushing and flossing habits. Below are a few tips to help you care for your dental implants.

How to Care for Dental Implants

1. Keep Gums Clean & Healthy

Healthy, stable gum tissue helps support dental implants, so be vigilant about keeping the gums clean and free of plaque to ward off periodontal disease. Gently brush the gums with your toothbrush as part of your regular oral care routine. Floss each time you brush, being sure to get the floss up to the gumline. If you notice signs of periodontal disease, like bleeding, puffy, or swollen gums, visit your dentist for a deep cleaning and more targeted treatment.

2. Schedule Biannual Teeth Cleanings

Thin layers of bacteria form over implants just as they do over natural teeth. If left unchecked, these bacteria can cause an infection around the implant, a condition called peri-implantitis. Daily brushing helps minimize the bacteria, but the more intensive cleaning provided by a dental hygienist can offer an even more thorough removal. Aim to visit the dentist for cleanings at least twice a year to protect your implant.

3. Don't Use Your Implant to Open Packaging

The temptation is understandable: You have no scissors or knife nearby, and you need to open up packaging quickly and easily, so you tear it open with your teeth. While this isn't good for the health of any tooth, it is especially damaging for implants. The forceful pulling action can destabilize the implant at the root, or it could cause the crown to break or fall out. When presented with the temptation to use your teeth to tear something open, take the time to fetch scissors or a knife.

Dental implants can transform your smile and provide a natural-feeling bite. Chinook Family Dentistry offers implants as just one of their comprehensive dental services. For more than 35 years, they have provided the Anchorage, AK, area with quality dental care and treatment, including general and cosmetic dentistry procedures. Schedule an appointment today by calling (907) 272-8422 or visiting them online.