Replacing both the tooth and the tooth root, dental implants are considered the gold standard in tooth-replacement options. Whether you’ve received a single dental implant, or an implant-supported denture, you can expect a number of benefits from these durable tooth replacements: easier chewing, refined aesthetics, true longevity, and improved blood flow and oral health.
However, while dental implants cannot develop decay, you still need to remain vigilant about your oral hygiene routine to ensure your restoration lasts for years to come.
For more than 30 years, Flatrock Family Dentistry has served the Greenville, Five Forks and Greer communities. Our experienced dentists, Dr. Rouse and Dr. Khan, have both completed advanced training in dental implants. They are committed to providing exceptional patient care in a warm and friendly atmosphere.
Caring For Your Dental Implants
One of the many advantages of dental implants is that their daily-care needs are very similar to the care of your natural teeth. Your dental implants should be cleaned twice a day with a toothbrush and floss to keep them plaque free. It is important to brush gently and give special attention to each side of the implant.
Your essential oral hygiene “toolkit” should include:
- Electric brush or small, soft manual toothbrush
- Low-abrasive, tartar control toothpaste
- Dental floss
Other items that may be helpful include:
- Antimicrobial mouthwash
- Discoloring tablets to identify areas of plaque accumulation
- Inter-dental brushes or other aids to remove plaque from between the teeth on either side of the implant
In addition to your oral hygiene regimen at home, it is also important to visit with your dentist regularly, every three to six months, for professional exams and cleanings. Your dental implants should be examined with an x-ray once a year.
What Happens If I Don’t Take Care of My Dental Implants?
Without consistent daily care, dental implants can develop problems. Your mouth is full of bacteria, which is why it’s so important to brush and floss regularly. Without daily maintenance, your teeth and gums are susceptible to tooth decay and gum disease.
Preventing bacteria buildup is particularly important when you have dental implants because of potential infection around the titanium posts in your jaw. This infection is referred to as perio-implantitis, and it can lead to gum inflammation and possible bone loss.
Left untreated, the infection can progress, leading to significant bone loss, and the potential loss of your dental implant.
Call Our Greenville Dentists Today
Please contact Flatrock Family Dentistry today online or at (864) 756-5576 to arrange a visit with one of our experienced dentists. We proudly serve patients in Greenville, Five Forks, Greer, and nearby areas in South Carolina.