Dental implants have the ability to last for a lifetime, but only if they are cared for properly. Like natural teeth, gum disease and other oral health problems can impact the stability of dental implants. This is why it’s so important that you maintain a solid oral hygiene routine after they have been placed.
Dental implants are placed below the gums, directly into the jaw bone. Once placed, an implant will undergo a process called osseointegration wherein osteoblasts and connective tissue integrate into tiny holes on its surface, securing it fast into bone. When this process has completed, the implant will serve as a new tooth root, able to secure a crown, dentures, or a bridge. And because it is held in place with bone, your implant should be able to restore full strength and function to your smile.
How to Care for Dental Implants
After implants have been placed, it is important that you keep the area clean. Dr. Konig may supply you with an irrigation syringe to flush the area around the implant. Use this as directed. Be sure also to take all prescribed medications. These may prove necessary at combating infection.
Do not smoke during recovery. Nicotine will delay your body’s healing response and significantly increases the risk of infection and complication.
During your recovery phase, you will return to our office for follow up visits with Dr. Konig. If issues need to be addressed, they will be discussed during these visits to help ensure the most rewarding experience.
After they have healed, you will care for dental implants in the same way you care for your natural teeth. This includes:
- Using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to brush your teeth after every meal and snack. If you are using a manual toothbrush, aim for two minutes. One minute is often enough if your toothbrush is electric. Be sure to avoid abrasive ingredients in your toothpaste. These will not harm your implant but may scratch or damage dental crowns and other restorations.
- Floss every morning and every night. Flossing twice a day helps prevent gum disease, tooth decay, and halitosis. Run a clean section of floss in between each tooth, all the way to the gums, to remove plaque, food particles, and buildup.
Continued maintenance of dental implants requires a commitment to oral health which will include biannual visits to our Houston office for cleanings and examinations. These visits allow us to thoroughly clean all of your teeth, even below the gum line, and to ensure your implants and other restorations are performing as intended.
To schedule an appointment with Dr. Konig, please call 713-668-2289 today. Located in Houston, Ronald Konig DDS, FAGD, LVIF, FIAPA welcomes patients from Katy, Sugar Land, The Woodlands, and all surrounding areas.
