Dental implants have become a popular and reliable way to replace missing or damaged teeth. At Foley & Le Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, we understand the importance of ensuring that your new dental implant lasts a lifetime. In this blog post, we will discuss four steps to maintain good oral health after dental implant surgery and help you secure a radiant and confident smile.
Step 1: Follow Post-Surgery Instructions
To ensure the success of your dental implant surgery, it is critical to follow your surgeon’s instructions after the procedure. These instructions will include the following:
- Avoid strenuous activities
- Apply ice packs to reduce swelling
- Take prescribed medications to manage pain and prevent infection
- Stop smoking and limit alcohol consumption for a designated period
Paying close attention to these guidelines will not only promote healing but also reduce the risk of complications and implant failure.
Step 2: Adopt a Healthy Oral Hygiene Routine
Maintaining a rigorous oral hygiene routine is vital after dental implant surgery. Include the following habits in your daily routine:
- Brush your teeth twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush
- Floss daily
- Rinse your mouth with an antimicrobial mouthwash
Step 3: Visit Your Oral Surgeon and Dentist Regularly
Scheduling regular check-ups with both your oral surgeon and dentist is key to ensuring the longevity of your dental implant. During these visits, your dental team will:
- Monitor the health and stability of your dental implant
- Provide professional cleanings to maintain a healthy oral environment
- Address any concerns or potential issues that may arise
Staying proactive with your dental appointments will safeguard your implant(s) and overall oral health.
Step 4: Maintain a Balanced Diet
Eating a balanced diet not only benefits your overall health, but can also contribute to maintaining healthy dental implants. Aim to include:
- Foods rich in calcium and vitamin D for stronger bones and teeth
- Fruits and vegetables that can help prevent gum inflammation
- Lean proteins and whole grains to support tissue repair and healing
By incorporating these essential steps into your routine, you can enjoy the benefits of dental implants and a healthy, beautiful smile for years to come.
Dental Implants Boulder CO
If you are considering dental implants as a tooth replacement option, schedule a consultation with Foley & Le today! Call (303) 444-2255 or complete the online booking form. Our skilled oral and maxillofacial surgeons, Dr. B. Foley, Dr. D. Foley, and Dr. Le, will answer your questions, evaluate your needs, and provide the personalized treatment plan that best meets your goals. We are proud to serve patients in Boulder, the Denver Metro Area, Longmont, Broomfield and other surrounding communities in Colorado.
If you are searching for dental implants near me, trust the experts at Foley & Le Oral Surgery. For more information about dental implants, read Are Dental Implants Worth The Cost? and Dental Implant Procedure: What To Expect.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Implants
With proper care, most dental implants can last a lifetime.
Yes! Dental implants provide an excellent solution for replacing multiple missing teeth or entire arch of missing teeth. Depending on your needs and preferences, you may be able to take advantage of a variety of implant-supported replacement options, including All-on-Four® dental implants.
Yes — it is important to avoid using too much force when brushing your teeth or flossing around the implant(s). Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle, circular strokes to clean around the implant. Be sure to floss carefully, as well.
Yes, flossing around your implant is important in order to remove any debris and plaque that may have built up. Flossing should be done gently and carefully to prevent damaging the implant or gum tissue. You may want to consider a water pik or a floss threader to help you get between your teeth and around the implant. If you have any questions about proper cleaning techniques, be sure to discuss them with your dentist or oral surgeon.
In some cases, a failed dental implant may need to be re-implanted or replaced. To reduce the risk of failure, it is important to follow your surgeon’s post-implant instructions and keep regular check-ups. At Foley & Le, our team is dedicated to providing the highest quality dental implant care and delivering outstanding results for our patients.
Implants fail at a much higher rate in smokers. We recommend quitting smoking entirely if you are considering dental implants or already have them. Additionally, it is important to practice diligent oral hygiene and attend regular dental check-ups for professional cleanings. These steps will help protect your investment and ensure the longevity of your dental implant.
