Dental implants in Milton, MA, can restore your smile after tooth loss, but all the many benefits they provide can be undone without proper care. Just like your natural teeth, dental implants require good dental hygiene habits. Otherwise, you risk inflammation, infection, and possible implant loss at the implant site. Just like any other dental concern, the earlier you spot the signs that something may be wrong, and the sooner you bring these issues to your dentist the better your chances of treatment are. Learn more about everything you can do to protect your dental implants from Dr. John Murphy, Dr. Patrick Murphy, and Dr. Natalie Shlosman of Murphy Dental Group.
Good and Bad Dental Health Habits
Other methods of restoring missing teeth, namely bridgework and removable dentures, require a great deal of extra care and they are expected to be replaced after a given time. Dental implants, on the other hand, are meant to be a complete and final restoration solution for your missing teeth. This means that they look, function, and are generally maintained just like your natural teeth.
Although you don't have to worry about cavities as you did with your natural teeth, the same bacteria can threaten the support structure that holds implants in place. If your gums become infected and diseased, decay can progress deep beneath and harm the bone tissue. Good dental hygiene practices are key to making sure this doesn't happen. This includes brushing and flossing every day, as well as regular in-office cleanings and checkups.
Bad habits you need to do away with include consuming too many sugary foods and drinks, which feed the bacteria. Cutting out smoking is also very important to your dental health. Doctors warn against it during the healing of the dental implant, and won't perform the procedure on a habitual smoker.
Dental Implants in Milton, MA
At the first sign of dental implant inflammation in Milton, MA, it's important to visit your dentist. To schedule a consultation with Dr. John Murphy, Dr. Patrick Murphy, and Dr. Shlosman of Murphy Dental Group, dial (617) 696-3900.