5 Essential Tips for Maintaining Your Implant Crowns

Dental implants have revolutionized dentistry, providing a permanent solution to missing teeth. Implant crowns, the visible part of the implant, are designed to look and function like natural teeth. 

However, just like natural teeth, implant crowns require proper maintenance to ensure their longevity. Here, we will discuss five essential tips for maintaining your implant crowns.

Tip 1: Brush and Floss Regularly

Brushing and flossing regularly is crucial for maintaining good oral hygiene and preventing dental problems such as gum disease and tooth decay. The same is true for implant crowns.

Brush your implant crowns twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Use gentle circular motions and avoid scrubbing too hard, as this can damage the implant crown or the surrounding gum tissue. 

Floss at least once a day to remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth and around the implant crown. You can use floss threaders or interdental brushes to clean hard-to-reach areas.

Tip 2: Avoid Hard Foods and Chewing on Non-Food Objects

Implant crowns are designed to be durable and withstand the forces of chewing and biting. However, they are not indestructible.

Avoid chewing on hard foods such as ice, hard candy, and popcorn kernels, as well as non-food objects such as pens and pencils. These can cause damage to your implant crown, leading to chips, cracks, or fractures. If you have a habit of clenching or grinding your teeth, talk to your dentist about getting a mouthguard to protect your implant crown.

Tip 3: Avoid Smoking and Excessive Alcohol Consumption

Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can have a detrimental effect on your oral health, including your implant crown. Smoking can cause gum disease and bone loss, which can weaken the implant’s foundation and lead to implant failure.

Excessive alcohol consumption can also cause gum disease and dry mouth, which can increase the risk of implant crown failure. If you smoke or drink alcohol, talk to your dentist about ways to quit or reduce your consumption.

Tip 4: Schedule Regular Dental Check-Ups

Regular dental check-ups are crucial for maintaining good oral health, including your implant crown. Your dentist will examine your implant crown and the surrounding gums to ensure they are healthy and free of any problems.

They will also clean your teeth and remove any plaque or tartar buildup that can cause gum disease and tooth decay. Your dentist may also take x-rays to check the implant’s foundation and ensure there are no signs of bone loss or implant failure.

Tip 5: Follow a Healthy Diet

Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein can give your body the nutrients it needs to keep your teeth and gums healthy. Avoid sugary and acidic foods and beverages, as they can increase the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.

Drinking plenty of water can also help keep your mouth hydrated and rinse away food particles and bacteria that can cause dental problems.

Conclusion

Maintaining your implant crown requires a combination of good oral hygiene practices, healthy habits, and regular dental check-ups. Brush and floss regularly, avoid hard foods and non-food objects, avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, schedule regular dental check-ups, and follow a healthy diet to ensure your implant crown remains healthy and functional for years. 

If you notice any problems with your implant crown, such as pain, swelling, or looseness, contact your dentist immediately to prevent further damage and ensure prompt treatment.

Need implant crowns in Riverview? Look no further than Best Value Dentures & Implants Riverview! Our dental professionals are dedicated to providing the highest quality care and ensuring your implant crowns are functional and long-lasting. Call us today to schedule your appointment.