Dental implants are designed to be a long-lasting solution for missing teeth, but their longevity depends heavily on how well they’re cared for after treatment. While implants are strong and durable, they still require consistent maintenance to keep the surrounding gums and bone healthy. Understanding the do’s and don’ts of implant care can help you protect your investment and avoid unnecessary complications.
Do Maintain Excellent Oral Hygiene
Good oral hygiene is one of the most important factors in keeping dental implants healthy. Brushing at least twice a day and flossing daily helps remove plaque and bacteria that can build up around the implant and gumline. Without proper cleaning, harmful bacteria can cause inflammation or infection around the implant.
Using a soft-bristled toothbrush and cleaning tools designed to reach around implants can help keep the area clean without irritating the surrounding tissue.
Don’t Neglect Your Gums
Even though dental implants can’t develop cavities, the gums around them are still vulnerable to disease. Redness, swelling, bleeding, or tenderness near an implant may be signs of peri-implant disease, which can weaken the bone supporting the implant if left untreated.
Paying attention to changes in your gums and addressing issues early can help preserve the health and stability of your implant.
Do Attend Regular Dental Visits
Routine dental checkups are essential for monitoring the condition of your dental implants. During these visits, your dentist can assess the implant, surrounding gums, and supporting bone to ensure everything remains healthy. Professional cleanings also help remove plaque buildup that may be difficult to reach at home.
Regular exams allow potential concerns to be identified early, reducing the risk of implant failure.
Don’t Use Your Implants as Tools
Dental implants are designed for chewing food — not opening packaging, biting nails, or chewing ice. Using implants for non-food purposes places excessive stress on the implant and restoration, increasing the risk of damage or loosening over time.
Avoid habits that put unnecessary pressure on your teeth, especially if you grind or clench, as this can impact both implants and natural teeth.
Do Be Mindful of What You Eat
While implants are strong, maintaining a balanced diet supports overall oral health. Limiting sugary and acidic foods helps reduce the risk of inflammation around the gums. Staying hydrated also supports saliva production, which plays an important role in washing away bacteria.
Following dietary recommendations during the healing phase is especially important to allow the implant to properly integrate with the jawbone.
Don’t Assume Implants Are Maintenance-Free
Once dental implants feel comfortable, it can be easy to forget that ongoing care is still required. Long-term success depends on consistent hygiene, routine dental visits, and healthy habits. Skipping care can allow small issues to develop into serious problems over time.
With proper attention and care, dental implants can remain strong, comfortable, and functional for many years.
About the Practice
Premier Dental of Vero Beach specializes in dental implant treatment designed to restore function and confidence. Dr. Adam Jones and Dr. Giuliana Diaz Jones focus not only on creating stunning results with dental implant surgery, but on lasting smiles. That means we take the extra time to ensure patients feel confident in their care and happy with their new teeth.
Call us at (772) 234-5353 or request an appointment online.