Dental implants offer a wide range of benefits to those who have them. They can make you look younger by preserving your facial shape, preventing tooth shifting, and filling in gaps. They can also give you back most of your bite power so you can eat your favorite foods and prevent jawbone deterioration. As amazing as these replacement tooth roots are, those who have them need to care for them properly to avoid issues. Read on to learn about six bad habits that you should avoid to make your dental implants last.
Habit #1: Bad Oral Hygiene
If you don’t brush twice and floss at least once per day, plaque will build up on your teeth and implants. Left untreated, this can cause cavities to form on your remaining pearly whites, which can lead to gum disease. When gum disease progresses into a severe infection called periodontitis, this may lead to the loss of your natural teeth as well as your dental implants.
Habit #2: Consuming Too Much Sugar
Harmful oral bacteria feed on sugar and release acids. These acids attack the teeth and weaken the enamel, which makes you more susceptible to decay. If the decay becomes bad enough, it can progress into gum disease. Cut back on the amount of sugar you have to prevent gum disease complications, including tooth and implant loss.
Habit #3: Smoking or Chewing Tobacco
Smoking makes you much more likely to develop gum disease, oral cancer, and a variety of other cancers. It also makes it more difficult for your body to heal and causes dry mouth, which lets oral bacteria thrive. Additionally, dental implants in smokers are as much as three times more likely to fail than in nonsmokers.
Habit #4: Nail Biting
Biting your nails can lead to chips and cracks in both your natural teeth and your implants. This also introduces foreign bacteria into your mouth, which makes you more likely to develop oral health issues like cavities and gum disease.
Habit #5: Using Teeth as Tools
Using your teeth to open bottles, cans, and packages can damage them by causing chips or fractures. Make sure to have the right tools on hand do avoid the urge to use your teeth instead.
Habit #6: Skipping Dental Checkups
Every six months, make sure to visit your dentist for checkups and cleanings. This will allow them to remove buildups of plaque and tartar from your teeth. During these checkups, they will also make sure your oral health is in good shape. Attending these dental visits is key to keeping your implants and natural teeth as healthy as possible.
Dental implants can do a lot of good for your smile, but only if you take care of them. Protect your investment by avoiding these bad habits, and you’ll have a smile you love in time!
About the Practice
Missing one or more teeth can really make your confidence take a hit. Luckily, the talented team at Olberding Dental can help. They offer dental implants that can fill the gaps in your smile, let you regain at least 80% of your bite power, and make you feel more confident in your pearly whites. Are you ready to start on your journey towards the smile you’ve always dreamed of having? If so, call Olberding Dental at (402) 488-2325 or visit their website for more information on dental implants or to make an appointment.