How best to care for dental implants this Christmas

‘Tis the season to have fun with friends and family! Inevitably, this leads to a little more over-indulgence than usual. The increased consumption of alcohol and sweet treats takes its toll on our teeth as much as it does on our waistline. It’s important we remember to care for dental implants everyday, twice a day, even during the holiday season.

• Answers to your FAQs about implants
• Your step by step guide to implants

Candy canes, sticky toffees, champagne, mulled wine, all popular throughout the festive period, can have detrimental effects on the health of our teeth. Not only this, but the increased number of late nights means that people are often too tired to give their teeth the care and attention necessary.

Here at SpaDental, we know how difficult it can be to go through tooth loss. Fortunately, our implant dentists know how best to replace these teeth. Dental implants are by far the most superior tooth loss replacement option. They fuse to your jawbone over time and this allows them to look and function like normal teeth.

A major benefit to dental implants is that because they are ultimately a false tooth they can’t develop cavities. However, it’s still vital that you care for your dental implants as you would your normal teeth, especially over the Christmas period. If not, your dental implant can become unstable, your gums unhealthy, and cavities can develop in remaining healthy teeth.

Here are our top tips to help you care for dental implants in the best way possible:

Tip 1 – Use the right technique

The technique for cleaning dental implants doesn’t differ too greatly from the technique used for your normal teeth. Brush every surface of the tooth thoroughly and pay special attention to the gums. This is where the majority of issues will arise if proper care for dental implants is not given.

Tip 2 – Pick the best toothbrush

Both electric or manual toothbrushes are suitable for cleaning dental implants. What’s more important is the use of either floss or an inter-dental brush to clean between your dental implant and normal teeth. Whichever method you choose, make sure to be gentle on the gums.

• Is an electric or a manual toothbrush better for my teeth?

Tip 3 – Watch out for warning signs

With regular care and attention your dental implants shouldn’t cause you any issues. But, like anything, this cannot be 100% guaranteed. Between dental check-ups, pay close attention to how your implants look and feel. If you see any redness and swelling around the area, have difficulty biting and chewing or your dental implants feel loose, book in to see a dentist straight away. That way, if there is anything wrong, we’ll be able to sort it as quickly as possible.

Tip 4 – Visit the dentist

Of course, alongside doing these things, it’s important that you book in to see your dentist regularly. A professional dental implant check at your local SpaDental practice will ensure that your implants last as long as possible and remain in peak condition.

Would you like to learn more about implants?

• How can I find a dentist near me?  Check our handy locator to find out if we are conveniently placed to meet your needs. Then give us a call or send us an email.

Yes, we can help you to care for dental implants too

Patients with implants should have regular reviews with a dentist, and also routine hygiene appointments. A SpaDental Plan can help you to spread the cost over the year, encourage you to attend regularly, as well as help identify any concerns before they develop into a problem.

Please don’t hesitate to get in touch to find out more.

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