Many experts consider dental implants the ideal way to rebuild smiles after tooth loss because of their unique placement in your jaw. Unlike alternatives, such as dentures and bridges, these restorations are embedded in and eventually fuse with the bone to become a more permanent part of your mouth.
But that doesn’t mean they’re invincible. Although failure is rare, it can happen if you don’t take the necessary precautions. Continue reading to learn more about 3 lifestyle changes you can make to support your new teeth!
Change #1: Implement a Routine
These prosthetics are made from resilient, biocompatible materials, such as titanium or ceramic, that don’t develop decay and disease like your natural teeth do. However, that doesn’t mean you no longer need to worry about keeping your mouth clean. Bacteria in your mouth can still cause cavities or periodontal problems, including peri-implantitis, the leading cause of failure.
Thankfully, this can often be prevented by implementing a twice-daily dental hygiene routine. Brushing and flossing both morning and night removes germs and plaque buildup that cause dental problems to help preserve your restoration. But take care not to press so deeply into the pocket of your implant that you damage its protective seal!
Change #2: Get More Vitamin D
Would you be surprised to learn that taking a 20-minute walk during peak sunlight hours on a bright day can potentially help support your dental implants? This is because exposure to ultraviolet rays of the sun triggers your body to produce vitamin D, which essential for building healthy teeth and bones. Without it, your jawbone can become too frail to support your dental implant.
This fat-soluble vitamin supports your immune health and helps keep your muscles and brain cells functioning at their peak. It also helps your gut absorb calcium and phosphorus from the foods you eat, which is necessary to grow healthy enamel. If you’re deficient, you can improve your levels by enjoying foods like fatty fish, egg yolks, or different fortified products, like cereal and orange juice. But spending some time outside exposed to sunshine may be the most effective way to boost your vitamin D.
Change #3: Stop Smoking
Smoking cigarettes, vaping, or using other tobacco products significantly increases the likelihood of implant failure for a few reasons. Firstly, the suction of taking a drag can damage or dislodge the blood clot that must form at the surgical site for it to heal properly. Not only that, but tobacco products contain nicotine, which is not only addictive, but also functions as a vasoconstrictor.
It limits your blood oxygen supply and flow, rendering your body unable to deliver essential nutrients to your gums to recover after your procedure. It suppresses your immune system at the same time, increasing the likelihood of implant-endangering infections.
If you have questions about other ways you can help maintain your beautiful new tooth, you can learn more by contacting your dentist directly!
About the Practice
Patients at Drennan Family Dentistry benefit from two providers who share decades of combined experience. Dr. Drennan and Dr. Carlson collaborate to offer a comprehensive menu of services using advanced technology to deliver more comfortable and accurate outcomes. They partner with local experts for implant placement, then provide lifelike restorations to improve your smile’s appearance and function. You can request an appointment on the website or call (817) 732-5522.
