Having all of your pearly whites is a hallmark of a healthy smile. So, if you have gaps in your beam, this can make it hard to love how it looks. There are fortunately a variety of ways to replace missing teeth. Dental implants are one of the most popular since they’re durable and long-lasting. If you’re considering this tooth replacement option, you may be wondering if it’s a safe choice for your smile. Continue reading to learn about how safe implants are as well as what you can do to make the healing process go as smoothly as possible.
Are Dental Implants Safe?
Dental implant placement requires oral surgery, so it’s natural to wonder if this treatment is safe. With a 95% success rate, this procedure is generally very safe for most patients. It’s rare to run into complications during the healing process as long as they follow their dentist’s post-op instructions.
Without proper care, you can develop tooth decay. Left untreated, this may lead to additional tooth loss. Gum disease is another potential oral health issue. Though gingivitis is easy to treat, advanced gum disease can lead to gum recession, loose teeth, and tooth loss. There is also a small chance that oral surgery such as gum disease can lead to allergic reactions, bleeding disorders, or infections.
5 Ways to Care for Your Dental Implants
To ensure that you avoid complications with your dental implants, it’s important to take good care of them after they’re placed. This includes:
- Brush your teeth – Before you eat breakfast and after your last meal of the day, be sure to brush your teeth. Do so for two minutes each time with a soft bristled toothbrush. You should also use toothpaste that contains fluoride to provide your smile with an extra layer of protection against cavities.
- Floss your smile – Flossing every night will remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth to lessen your risk of decay and gum disease.
- Avoid bad oral habits – This includes chewing on ice or pen caps, using your teeth to open packages and bottles, and eating too many sweet, starchy, or acidic foods. If you smoke cigarettes or drink alcohol excessively, speak with a dentist, doctor, or mental health professional to get help quitting.
- Visit your dentist – See your dentist every six months for cleanings and dental checkups.
- Eat a balanced diet – Increase your intake of foods that are good for your smile. This includes fish, lean meats, nuts, low-fat or fat-free dairy products, and fresh, crisp fruits and veggies.
About the Practice
Drs. Steven Rodriguez and Hana Gadalla are proud to lead the skilled team at Healthy Smiles Dental Care. They strive to administer exceptional care to their Flint patients with restorative, preventive, and cosmetic treatments you’ll love. If you have gaps in your smile, they also offer dental implants which are a safe, long-lasting solution. Call Healthy Smiles Dental Care at (810) 720-6433 to set up an appointment or visit their website to learn more about their services.