Yes, implants are designed to offer a lifetime of service; however, this does not mean patients electing to have implants surgically inserted into their mouths can neglect their oral health. Patients still need to play their part in taking good care of their implants by following the advice and guidance of their dentists. After all, an implant treatment is an investment, not only of money but time in the treatment process itself, and effort in improving self-confidence. At Smilemakers Dental Implant Clinic we urge our patients who have had teeth-replacement dental implants in Southampton to follow a strict aftercare routine for optimal gum healing and successful fusion.
How to ensure the long-term satisfactory use of your implants
Once you have had the surgical procedure, and depending on the complexity of your treatment, your dentist may recommend taking a few days off work and will provide you with antibiotic medication to prevent infection, and painkillers should you experience any discomfort. You may even be required to use a special mouthwash if your dentist deems it necessary. It is utterly important to follow all instructions carefully.
- Continue a good oral hygiene routine
Many patients falsely believe that just because implants aren’t natural, they do not require proper oral care. This is an error in judgement. It is as vitally important to continue with good oral health practices as you would with natural teeth. This means brushing twice a day for a minimum of two minutes, flossing at least once a day and having regular dental check-ups. Regular check-ups with a dentist will offer peace of mind that the implants have been successfully inserted, and should any problems be detected, proper measures can be put in place to rectify them.
- Minimise infections
Implant infections, known as peri-implantitis can occasionally occur. One risk of this type of infection is that the inflammation around the gum and bone can spread and affect the new implants as well as their titanium roots. The consequences of this infection can include the development of jawbone loss and implant instability, and eventually implants will fall out. Patients more at risk of developing peri-implantitis are diabetics, smokers and those with compromised immune systems.
- Manage chronic conditions
Before seeking dental implants in Southampton it is important to discuss your overall health and any pre-existing conditions with your dentist. Overall good health is a critical factor in protecting your implants. Medical conditions that include diabetes, osteoarthritis and even poor immune systems place you at risk of implant failure. Managing these conditions by following the instructions of your doctor religiously (taking your prescribed medication as directed and routine medical check-ups) is part and parcel of successful implants.
- Maintain healthy gums
Another influential factor in strong implant insertion is healthy gums. Healthy gums secure implants more effectively and offer a protective barrier from undesirable elements such as food particles affecting the implants. Gum disease cause gums to weaken and recede, and leads to the exposure of the root of the tooth as well as the implant. Gum disease, when left untreated, can cause additional complications with the quality of bone beneath the gum line. Weakened bone structure can result in bone loss which places the support of implants at risk.
If you have any questions or concerns about aftercare treatment for your implants or for more ways to ensure optimal recovery, please schedule an appointment with one of our dentists at Smilemakers Dental Implant Clinic.
