Losing teeth hurts your confidence and your oral health. Luckily, dental implants can fill in the gaps in your grin, give you back at least 80% of your bite power, and prevent further oral health issues from developing. As useful as dental implants are, several bad habits can damage them as well as your natural teeth. Read on to learn about six bad habits that you should avoid to keep your dental implants looking and functioning their best.
Habit #1: Bad Oral Hygiene
Since dental implants can’t get cavities, that may lead some people to believe that brushing and flossing them isn’t as important as it is with your natural teeth. Though implants can’t decay, they can still accumulate plaque and tartar, which raises your chances of developing cavities in your remaining teeth. If left untreated, severe decay can lead to gum disease, which may cause additional tooth loss as well as dental implant failure. Make sure to brush once in the morning and before you go to bed for two minutes to remove plaque from your pearly whites. Additionally, floss after dinner to remove food particles stuck between your teeth.
Habit #2: Consuming Too Much Sugar
When we eat sugar, this feeds the oral bacteria that cause cavities. The bacteria then release acids that attack the tooth enamel and raise your chances of developing cavities in your remaining teeth, which may ultimately lead to gum disease. Cut back on your sugar consumption and drink plenty of water to wash away sugar and bacteria.
Habit #3: Smoking or Chewing Tobacco
Smoking cigarettes and using other tobacco products raises your likelihood of developing gum disease and oral cancer, both of which may cause implant failure. Cut this bad habit out of your life to improve your chances of success. Additionally, ask your dentist for resources if you need help quitting.
Habit #4: Nail Biting
If you bite your nails, this may lead to chips or cracks in your natural teeth as well as your implants. It also introduces new bacteria into your mouth, which may lead to cavities or an infection of the gums. If you need to keep your mouth occupied, chew on sugar-free gum instead.
Habit #5: Using Teeth as Tools
Opening bottles, cans, and packages with your teeth or implants can cause them to chip, crack, or fracture. Avoid doing this to prevent damage to your implants, and keep the correct tool on hand to avoid temptation.
Habit #6: Skipping Dental Checkups
Visit your dentist every six months so they can examine your oral health. This will allow them to identify any issues that may jeopardize your implants. Additionally, your hygienist will thoroughly clean your teeth and implants to lessen your chances of developing cavities on your remaining teeth.
By avoiding these bad habits, you can protect your investment and make sure your implants last. If you take good care of them, you may be sporting a smile you love for the rest of your life!
About the Practice
With Dr. Thomas Novak, Dr. Garrett Johannsen, and their talented team at Beacon Dentistry, Weatherford residents of all ages are in good hands. If you’re missing one or more teeth and need to have them replaced, they can explain the dental implant process to you and help you determine if it’s the right choice for your smile. Are you interested in making an appointment with Beacon Dentistry or do you want more information on their dental implant services? If so, visit their website or call their office at (817) 594-7302 to get started on your smile journey!