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Dental implants are one of the best long-term solutions for missing teeth—but just like natural teeth, they need care and attention to stay strong and beautiful.
Whether you’ve just had your implants placed or you’ve had them for a while, knowing how to maintain them properly is key to making them last a lifetime. Here’s exactly how to keep that implant-supported smile looking—and feeling—amazing.
Why Do Implants Deserve Special Care?
Dental implants don’t decay like natural teeth, but they’re not invincible. They’re supported by your gums and jawbone—just like real teeth—so if your oral health declines, your implants could fail.
Proper care not only protects your investment but also ensures your gums stay healthy and your smile stays dazzling.
1. Brush Like You Mean It
You already know brushing is essential, but it becomes even more important with implants. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently but thoroughly clean your teeth and gums twice a day.
Electric toothbrushes can be especially effective at removing plaque around implants without damaging them.
Pro Tip: Use a non-abrasive toothpaste to avoid scratching the implant surface.
2. Floss Daily—Yes, Every Day
Even though implants don’t get cavities, plaque and food particles can still accumulate around them. This can lead to peri-implantitis, a gum infection that threatens the surrounding bone.
Use floss specifically designed for implants, or consider interdental brushes or water flossers to clean those hard-to-reach areas.
3. Keep Up with Dental Checkups
Your implants may look and feel perfect, but regular dental visits are a must. A dentist will:
- Check the condition of your implant.
- Monitor the health of surrounding gum tissue.
- Perform professional cleanings to prevent infection.
Skipping appointments can mean missing early signs of trouble.
According to the American Dental Association, dental implants boast a success rate of up to 98%—but that success is closely tied to patient aftercare and maintenance.
4. Watch What You Chew
Dental implants in Fort Worth, TX, are strong—but they’re not indestructible. Avoid habits that can put unnecessary pressure on them, such as:
- Chewing ice or hard candies.
- Biting fingernails.
- Using teeth as tools (to open packages, etc.).
If you grind your teeth at night, talk to our dentist about getting a night guard to protect both your implants and your natural teeth.
5. Say Goodbye To Smoking Tobacco
Smoking is one of the leading causes of implant failure. It restricts blood flow, slows healing, and increases your risk of gum disease.
If you’re serious about protecting your smile, quitting smoking isn’t just helpful—it’s essential.
6. Stick to a Mouth-Friendly Diet
What you eat affects your oral health more than you might think. Fuel your smile with:
- Crunchy fruits and veggies (great for saliva production).
- Dairy products (rich in calcium for bone support).
- Lean proteins and whole grains.
Stay away from excessive sugar and acidic drinks that can damage your enamel and irritate your gums.
7. Use an Antibacterial Mouthwash
A good antimicrobial mouthwash can help reduce the bacteria that brushing and flossing might miss. Use it once a day, preferably after brushing, to give your implant extra protection.
Keep That Smile Radiant—For Life
Dental implants don’t just restore your smile—they restore confidence, comfort, and quality of life. But the key to enjoying all those benefits for years to come? Maintenance.
With the right care routine, regular checkups, and healthy habits, you can keep your dental implants functioning and looking like new.
It’s Your Smile—Own It
You didn’t go through the process of getting implants just to take them for granted. Whether you’ve had one implant or a full arch replacement, protecting your smile is now part of your lifestyle. And the good news? It’s easier than you think.
