How do dental implants compare to other dental restoration options?

Unlike other restorations, dental implants are anchored within the jawbone to replace tooth structures above and below the gum line. As such, dental bridges and dentures can’t prevent jawbone degradation like implant posts. You’ll also enjoy the benefits of a natural tooth with implants, never having to worry about special maintenance.

Can implants be used for dentures?

Implants can help patients missing all of their natural teeth in the lower or upper jaws who have difficulty wearing a traditional denture. Our implant dentist can provide implant-supported dentures that won’t need removal for maintenance, mealtimes, or overnight. This denture appliance won’t slip or slide as you speak and chew for a comfortable fit.

Does dental insurance cover the cost of dental implants?

Some insurance companies may cover a portion of your dental implant treatment cost. We recommend contacting your provider to better understand your plan’s benefits. We’re proud to offer an in-house dental savings plan to help patients receive the dental care they need without breaking the bank. Call our Willoughby Hills office at (440) 210-0999 to learn more.

Who’s not a good candidate for dental implants?

While most patients are good candidates for dental implants, Dr. Wallace may recommend a supplemental procedure for patients who: Grind or clench their teeth (bruxism). Have pre-existing conditions such as gum disease, diabetes, cancer, or alcoholism. Lack sufficient jawbone density. Use tobacco products. Take medications such as steroids or immune system suppressants.

How to Care for Your Dental Implants in Willoughby Hills, OH

The Ultimate Guide to Caring for Your Dental Implants: Tips for Maintaining a Healthy Smile

Are you considering getting dental implants or have you recently undergone the dental implant procedure? Caring for dental implants is essential to ensure their longevity and oral health. At Smile Brighter, our Willoughby Hills, OH dentist, Dr. Phillip Wallace, can help you explore the best practices and tips for caring for your dental implants, and provide you with all the information you need to keep your smile healthy and beautiful. From maintaining proper oral hygiene to understanding potential risks, we’ve got you covered.

To ensure that your restoration lasts and to help increase its longevity, our Willoughby Hills dentist has created a comprehensive guide to caring for dental implants. If you have any questions, contact our dental team today by calling (440) 210-099.

Caring for Your Dental Implants

Basic Oral Hygiene Habits

Good oral hygiene is essential for maintaining the health and longevity of your dental implants, especially for implant patients. Oral hygiene habits to follow include brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing daily, and using an antiseptic mouthwash to kill bacteria and freshen your breath.

Brushing Your Teeth

One of the most effective ways to maintain dental implants is by brushing your teeth twice a day. When brushing your teeth, use a soft-bristled toothbrush and toothpaste specifically formulated for implants. Make sure to brush all surfaces of your teeth, including the tops, sides, chewing surfaces, and gum lines.

Flossing

Flossing is important for removing plaque and food particles from between your teeth and around your dental implants. Use a floss threader or special dental floss designed for dental implants to make flossing around the implant post easier.

One of the best methods for flossing is known as a Waterpik. It can reach difficult spots and keep the gum line clean.

Rinsing Your Mouth to Prevent Gum Disease

Rinsing your mouth between meals is an essential step in maintaining the health of your dental implants. It helps remove food particles and bacteria that may be left behind after eating, which can lead to plaque and tartar buildup around the implant post.

Use an antiseptic mouthwash specifically formulated for dental implants. Swish the mouthwash around your mouth for 30 seconds to a minute, making sure to reach all areas of your mouth, including the implant site. Spit the mouthwash out and rinse your mouth with water.

Routine Visits to Smile Brighter

Regular dental checkups and cleanings are essential for maintaining excellent oral health and keeping your dental implants in pristine condition. Our Willoughby Hills dentist will examine your implants to check for any signs of wear or damage and clean and polish them to remove plaque and tartar buildup. Additionally, monitoring implant sites during routine visits is crucial for assessing peri-implant health and ensuring long-term success.

Dental implant is a great way to replace a missing tooth. Are you someone in the Willoughby Hills, OH area looking for a dentist to get a missing tooth fixed? Then Dr. Stern at Smile Brighter Willoughby Hills is the dentist you should visit.

Problems That Can Occur Without Dental Implant Maintenance

Implant maintenance problems can occur despite regular care and maintenance. Here are some common problems and how to address them:

Peri-implantitis: This is a type of gum disease that affects the tissue around the implant, leading to inflammation and bone loss. Symptoms include bleeding, swelling, and redness around the implant. To treat peri-implantitis, your dentist may recommend antibiotics, deep cleaning procedures, or even surgery in severe cases. Monitoring for peri-implant disease is crucial to ensure implant longevity and prevent severe complications.
Loose implant: If you feel like your implant is loose or wobbly, it may be due to a loose abutment screw or implant failure. Contact our Willoughby Hills dentist immediately for an evaluation and treatment options.
Broken restoration: The crown, bridge, or denture that is attached to the implant may become loose, crack, or break over time. This can be due to normal wear and tear or physical trauma. Depending on the extent of the damage, your dentist may recommend a repair or replacement.
Gum recession: Gum recession can occur around the implant, exposing the implant to bacteria and leading to implant failure. Dr. Wallace may recommend gum grafting surgery to address the recession and prevent further damage. Monitoring peri-implant soft tissues is essential to detect any signs of disease and ensure the long-term success of the implant.

It’s important to seek prompt treatment for any implant maintenance problems to prevent further damage and ensure the longevity of your implant. Regular dental check-ups and follow-up appointments can also help catch potential problems

Frequently Asked Questions

After receiving your dental implants, you’ll want to continue to visit your dentist once every six months. By maintaining regular dental visits, you’ll ensure your dental implants stay in excellent shape along with your surrounding natural teeth.

Most dentists recommend using a toothbrush and toothpaste specifically formulated for dental implants, as they’re designed to clean and protect the implant post and surrounding tissue without causing damage. Your dentist will recommend the best toothbrush and toothpaste for your specific case.

Since the base of your dental implant is fused with your jawbone, food won’t get trapped under the restoration. Unlike other tooth replacements, dental implants look, feel, and function the most like natural teeth.

Yes, plaque can grow on implants just like it can on natural teeth. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth and gums, and if not removed through proper oral hygiene practices, can lead to gum disease and other oral health issues.

Your Dental Implants Can Last a Lifetime at Smile Brighter

Maintaining the health and longevity of your dental implants is essential for a beautiful and confident smile. Dental implants are a reliable solution for replacing missing teeth, providing a permanent and natural-looking option. With the guidance of Dr. Wallace, you can explore various options for replacing missing teeth, such as dental implants and dentures, to find the best solution for your needs. To get personalized tips and quality advice on caring for your dental implants, schedule a consultation by calling (440) 210-0999.