Although it’s true that some bad habits can feel good, they don’t call them that for nothing. Whether it’s biting your nails, smoking or vaping, or even crunching on things like ice cubes and hard candies that can crack your crowns, there are many dangerous activities that can put your dental implants at risk. Here are four you should avoid so you can protect your newly restored smile for a lifetime!
Forgetting to Brush
No matter why you lost teeth in the first place, once you’ve replaced them with dental implants, maintaining your oral hygiene is more important than ever. That’s because one of the leading causes of dental implant failure is a condition called peri-implantitis, which occurs when your gums become infected, much like gum disease. Thus, be sure to brush your teeth twice a day and floss daily, even if you have no remaining natural teeth.
Using Your Teeth as Tools
Envelope won’t tear? Don’t have a nail clipper handy? Before you consider using your teeth to take care of the problem, take a moment to consider the consequences to your smile. Using your pearly whites instead of a proper pair of scissors or clippers can not only make it harder to perform the intended task, but it can also put your teeth (and dental implants) at risk!
Excessive Drinking
Following your dental implant placement surgery, you’ll enter the period of healing known as osseointegration. This is when the post permanently fuses with the jawbone. Typically, it can take anywhere from four to nine months, and although drinking alcohol occasionally shouldn’t completely prevent it from happening, it can slow the process down. Thus, it is recommended that you abstain from consuming this type of beverage until you’ve gotten your restorations. After that, you can resume, but your dentist recommends doing so in moderation, as this can cause dry mouth and increase your risk of gum disease and dental implant failure.
Avoiding the Dentist
Even if you have no remaining natural teeth, you should still plan on visiting your dentist every six months. These important checkups are your dentist’s opportunity to examine your smile and ensure that your dental implants (and any remaining teeth) are in good condition. You’ll also receive potentially lifesaving oral cancer screenings, X-rays, and your teeth and restorations will be professionally cleaned so they look and feel as good as new!
Remember, while bad habits can sometimes be hard to quit, when you restore your smile with dental implants, it’s important to try. That’s because some dangerous behaviors could cost you your newly restored smile, as well as any remaining real teeth. Thus, when it’s time to get a gorgeous, healthy grin again, pay attention to the aftercare instructions from your dentist, and avoid any unhealthy habits that could put your smile at risk!
About Dr. Rosenbaum
Dr. Robert Rosenbaum earned his undergraduate degree at UC Berkeley and UC Davis, and his dental degree at Georgetown University School of Dentistry. Today, he is a proud member of the American Dental Association and the California Dental Association. He is pleased to offer complete dental implant treatment right here in Modesto, helping you to restore your gorgeous, healthy smile for life. To learn more about dental implants, schedule a consultation today by visiting our website or calling 350-200-0643.