The Keys to Taking Care of Your Dental Implants in Ridgefield

are among the best ways to replace missing teeth. Not only do they look natural, but they can feel natural as well. They have the potential to last for a lifetime, and they’re sturdy enough to stand up to that juicy steak or that crunchy apple. However, just because they can put up with a lot doesn’t mean that they’re invulnerable. They’ll take care of you, but only if you take care of them. Here are a few keys to keeping those implants in great shape.

Brush, Brush, Brush

You know that brushing is essential to keep natural teeth healthy, bit it’s also vital for implants. Even though artificial teeth can’t get cavities, they can accumulate plaque. If that bacteria-filled substance is allowed to remain on teeth long enough, it can sneak between the implants on the gums. The infection can eat away at your bones and may lead to implant failure.

When you’re brushing, use a toothpaste that is non-abrasive or low-abrasive; you don’t want to scratch up that new smile of yours. You might ask your dentist in Ridgefield for recommendations on which products to use.

Be sure to clean your teeth at least twice a day, but if you can brush after every meal, that’s even better.

Floss and Rinse Like a Boss

Keeping your mouth clean and battling plaque and infections requires more than just brushing a few times a day. Flossing is also important because it cleans out the areas that your toothbrush can’t reach. It can get between the implants’ abutments and your gums, taking out food particles and bacteria that might otherwise get stuck in there.

Flossing once a day is great, but if you can do it at least twice a day, your implants will thank you. Just be careful to be gentle when you’re flossing so you don’t accidentally hurt that winning grin of yours.

Another way to help keep infections at bay is to use an antimicrobial mouth rinse. It can put the finishing touch on your daily oral hygiene routine, killing bacteria that might cause an infection.

Know Your Mouth and Visit Your Dentist Regularly

Always be aware of what is going on in your mouth. If you notice any changes in your implants — for example, if they start to feel loose or the gums around the implants begin to turn red or show other signs of infections— it’s important that you see your dentist right away for treatment.

Your “dentist near me” wants to help you maintain your new smile and avoid costly and painful corrective surgeries. Even if your implants seem fine, having a couple of appointments each year with a dental care provider is wise because an will be able to spot problems before you can. Plus, a professional dental cleaning is just one more defense you have against implant problems.

Your dental implants have the potential to last a lifetime — but only if you care for them well. Use the above tips to keep your smile gorgeous and healthy.

About Ridgefield Perfect Smile Center

Drs. Dana Jones and Josephine Franzese compose your team of dental experts in Ridgefield. They’re dedicated to providing the best care possible for their patients — and their patients’ implants. If you want more information on how to look after your restored smile, please contact our office at 203-438-8919.