Dental implants are a highly durable tooth replacement option with a 95% success rate. They can give you back at least 80% of your bit power and, with proper care, they can even last a lifetime. But, if you don’t take good care of your dental implants, you may end up spending a lot of time, money, and stress on correcting your mistakes. Read on to learn about six bad habits with dental implants that you should avoid to make them last as long as possible.
Habit #1: Consuming Too Much Sugar
You may be aware that eating too much sugar can cause cavities to form, but it can also significantly increase your likelihood of developing gum disease. When gum disease develops, harmful oral bacteria will start to destroy the supporting tissue, which can lead to implant failure and further tooth loss. If caught early, gum disease can be treated and even reversed. Even so, the best way to prevent gum disease is by reducing the amount of sugar you eat.
Habit #2: Bad Oral Hygiene
Though dental implants can’t develop cavities, brushing twice and flossing once per day is still a key part of maintaining them. This will prevent plaque accumulation, which can lead to cavities, gum disease, and even implant failure.
Habit #3: Nail Biting
Though some people chew their nails as a nervous habit or when they’re feeling bored or anxious, this can introduce harmful bacteria into your mouth. You should also avoid chewing on ice, pencils, or other non-food items as these can also cause damage to your teeth. Chew sugar-free gum or eat crisp, fresh veggies instead to increase saliva production and avoid damaging your mouth.
Habit #4: Using Teeth as Tools
If you use your teeth to open cans, bottles, and packages, this creates pressure that will weaken them over time and can cause chips, breaks, or fractures. It can also cause damage to your dental implants. To resist the urge to use your pearly whites to crack open a cold one, make sure you have the right tools on hand.
Habit #5: Smoking or Chewing Tobacco
Smoking increases your chances of getting oral cancer by up to ten times. It also impairs your body’s ability to heal properly and makes dental implants three times more likely to fail than in the mouths of nonsmokers. Cutting out tobacco can protect your oral health and give your dental implants a better chance of success.
Habit #6: Skipping Dental Checkups
Even if you’re really good about brushing and flossing your teeth the recommended amount, there are still spots you won’t be able to reach without a dentist. Go to appointments every six months to ensure that your teeth and dental implants remain clean and healthy.
Dental implants are low maintenance compared to other tooth replacement options, but there are still a few habits you should avoid to keep them in good shape. By avoiding the above bad habits, you can maintain a healthy mouth and set your dental implants up for success!
About the Practice
Dr. Peter F. Johnson and his team at San Diego Denture & Implant Specialists offer an abundance of preventive, restorative, and cosmetic procedures and treatment options. They offer expert-level dental implant services to restore your bite and give you a healthy, beautiful, and complete smile that you’ll want to show off to the world. If you’re interested in scheduling an appointment or have questions about dental implants, call (619) 463-3737 or visit their website.
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