How to Protect Your Dental Implant: Avoid These Harmful Habits

Dental implants are an excellent solution for replacing missing teeth. They are durable, long-lasting, and highly effective in restoring your smile. However, to ensure that your implants last for a long time, it is essential to take good care of them. 

There are several harmful habits that you should avoid if you have dental implants, and you might not be aware that you are already doing them. So, in this article, we will list some of the most common practices that can damage your dental implants and what you can do to prevent them.

Chewing Hard Foods

One of the most common habits that can harm dental implants is chewing hard foods. Dental implants function like natural teeth, but they are not indestructible. 

Chewing on hard foods such as ice, hard candy, and nuts can cause your implants to crack or break. This can lead to a host of problems, including pain, discomfort, and even the need for replacement.

To avoid damaging your dental implants, be mindful of what you eat. Avoid chewing on hard foods, and stick to soft or cooked foods instead. If you must eat hard foods, cut them into small pieces and chew slowly and carefully.

Grinding Your Teeth

Bruxism, or teeth grinding, is a common habit that can wreak havoc on dental implants. Grinding your teeth puts excessive pressure on them, causing them to loosen or break. This can lead to pain, discomfort, and the need for replacement.

To prevent damage from teeth grinding, you can try wearing a nightguard. A nightguard is a custom-made appliance that fits over your teeth, protecting them from the effects of bruxism. It is also important to identify the cause of your teeth grinding and address it. Stress, anxiety, and sleep disorders can contribute to bruxism, so you must seek treatment if necessary.

Smoking

Smoking is a harmful habit that can have a detrimental effect on your dental implants. Smoking can cause many oral health problems, including gum disease, tooth decay, and bone loss. These issues can compromise the stability of your dental implants and increase the risk of implant failure.

To protect your dental implants, it is best to quit smoking. Talk to your dentist or doctor about developing a plan to quit smoking and stick to it. Not only will stopping smoking benefit your oral health, but it will also improve your overall health and well-being.

Neglecting Oral Hygiene

Neglecting oral hygiene is another harmful habit that can damage dental implants. Proper oral hygiene is essential for maintaining the health and longevity of your dental implants. Failing to brush and floss regularly can lead to plaque buildup, gum disease, and other oral health problems that can compromise the stability of your implants.

Brush your teeth twice a day, floss daily, and use an antibacterial mouthwash to kill bacteria and freshen your breath. Regular dental checkups and cleanings are also essential for maintaining the health of your implants.

Conclusion

Dental implants are a great solution for replacing missing teeth but they require proper care and maintenance to ensure longevity. By avoiding the habits listed above and taking good care of your implants, you can enjoy a healthy, beautiful smile for many years to come. 

If you have questions or concerns about your dental implants or you want to get one, visit Best Value Dentures & Implants Riverview. Not only do we provide the best quality dental implants in Riverview, but we'll also guide you in keeping your implants healthy and strong. Book an appointment today!