So, you finally got your dental implants—congratulations! Now that your new teeth are secured in place, it’s time to ensure they stay there. Oral care is a must, but there are some other habits that you may need to pump the brakes on. Continue reading to learn about the worst habits to have when you have dental implants.
Skipping Regular Dental Checkups
Even though dental implants don’t get cavities, that doesn’t mean you can skip out on regular checkups! Routine visits allow your dentist to check the health of your gums and make sure each of your implant fixtures are still functioning well.
During these appointments, your dentist will also clean hard-to-reach areas around the implant that may be prone to plaque buildup. Doing this effectively keeps gum disease at bay, reducing the risk of implant failure.
Smoking and Vaping
Smoking and vaping both pose a threat to dental implants. Cigarettes and vape juice both contain chemicals that, when inhaled, restrict blood flow to your gums, slowing down the healing process after implant placement. This can increase the risk of implant failure or gum disease, compromising your investment.
If you’re considering dental implants, it’s best to limit how often you indulge in these activities or quit altogether. It can be difficult but finding help and quitting will give your implants the best chance of long-term success.
Skipping Regular Dental Checkups
Dental implants are strong, but they’re not indestructible. Biting down on hard objects, like ice cubes, pens, or even your fingernails, can potentially damage them. These habits can lead to small cracks or chips in the crown, which can weaken the implant. So, let your teeth do their job of chewing food while bottle openers, fingernail clippers, and other tools take care of other tasks.
Grinding Your Teeth
Bruxism, or teeth grinding, can wear down your implants, cracking the restorations attached to them or causing the fixtures to become loose. While some patients know about their grinding issues, others only do it at night, making them dangerously unaware.
If you often feel jaw or tooth pain or headaches when you wake up, talk to your dentist. They can check for signs of bruxism and recommend a nightguard or other treatment to help keep your implants safe.
By breaking these bad habits, you can protect your dental implants and ensure they continue providing their excellent benefits. Without these issues setting you back, you’ll be able to enjoy your newly restored smile for a lifetime!
About the Author
Dr. Ira Goldberg is a skilled dentist with a degree from the University of Michigan and over 30 years of practical experience. If you’re ready to transform your smile with dental implants, he has the advanced technology to meet your needs! Call (973) 328-1225 to schedule a dental implant consultation at Morris County Dental Associates. You can also visit our website to learn more about the various treatments and services we provide.