The team at Harmony Dental Care always stresses good oral hygiene. It’s ideal preventative care, and it can also ensure the results of various cosmetic and restorative procedures. This is why we always take time to discuss proper at-home dental care with our patients throughout the Jackson area.
Case in point, good oral hygiene can prevent failure of dental implant treatment. Let’s look at a few issues and why you should follow our oral hygiene recommendations carefully.
About Dental Implants
Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that are surgically embedded into the jawbone and gum tissue. With dental implants in place, dental crowns, dental bridges, partial dentures, and full dentures can be secured and anchored with great stability.
After the initial oral surgery, there is a months long process known as osseointegration. This means that the implants fuse with the natural structures of the mouth. They are, in effect, just as strong as natural tooth roots. The process is complete when osseointegration is done.
Good Oral Hygiene Makes a Difference
When it comes to having healthy dental implants, patients need to make sure that they practice proper oral hygiene. Good oral hygiene will prevent serious issues during the healing period after oral surgery and allow patients to have a healthy mouth in the years ahead.
When patients have poor oral hygiene, it makes implant failure more likely. This could involve the dental implants shifting out of position, the gums receding around the dental implant, or damage to the jawbone as a result of problems with overall dental health and wellness.
Ensuring Full Osseointegration
By practicing proper oral hygiene as recommended by your oral surgeon and dentist, you will allow osseointegration to occur without any undue issues or setbacks. This means faster healing, fewer potential complications, and better overall success from implant dentistry.
The Dangers of Gum Disease
Gum disease is the bacterial infection of the gum tissue caused by the oral bacteria that naturally occurs in the mouth. When gum disease occurs, it can lead to serious issues with gum recession and the spread of infection to the teeth and the jawbone. Proper oral hygiene prevents the development and spread of gum disease.
The Dangers of Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)
Teeth grinding is the gnashing, clenching, and movement of the jaw during sleep, which is often caused by poor dental alignment or stress. When this occurs, it can place a great deal of pressure on the teeth, jaw joint, and the jawbone. When dental implants are in place, this can lead to serious damage to the implant. Having a bit guard made can help reduce the stress on the structures of the mouth and prevent implant failure.
Avoid Smoking and Tobacco Products
Smoking and the use of tobacco products is linked to many dental health issues, including gum disease, tooth loss, and advanced damage to tooth structure. Be sure to avoid using tobacco products to ensure that your smile is healthy and beautiful, and that your dental implants are not affected.
Contact Our Practice About Implant Dentistry
For more information about dental implants and how they can help you have a healthy and beautiful smile, be sure to contact our advanced dental care practice today. The team at Harmony Dental Care will work with you to ensure optimal dental health and wellness.