Get the Most Out of Your Dental Implant

Louisville, KY

Thanks to dramatic advances in technology and cosmetic dentistry, sporting a gorgeous smile — even if you currently have missing teeth — has never been easier. Dental implants have become a wildly popular option for restoring missing teeth or replacing teeth that must be extracted.

Dental implants are permanent replacements for missing teeth. During the implant process, a skilled cosmetic dentist inserts a titanium post in the jawbone where the natural tooth is missing. The jawbone eventually accepts and fuses to the post, turning it into a new artificial tooth “root.” A customized dental crown is fabricated to match the surrounding teeth.

Dental implants have a 98 percent, long-term success rate. A large part of that success relies on a patient taking great care of the implants. If you have implants or are considering them, read the following tips from our cosmetic dentists in Jeffersonville to increase the odds of enjoying lifelong success with your implants.

Don’t skip your dental appointments

Dental implants are remarkably similar to natural teeth and benefit from professional cleanings in much the same way, with gum health being of utmost importance. Built-up plaque on the gums could lead to implant infection. This is why it’s imperative that implant patients visit the dentist twice a year.

Brush and floss daily

Implants need similar care as natural teeth, so the same strong oral hygiene practices are just as crucial. Brush at least twice a day, and floss once daily. Many implant patients also opt for an oral irrigator, also called a water flosser.

Rinse with mouthwash

Mouthwash can help remove the buildup of bacteria (and, thereby, plaque and tartar) on the teeth, reducing the risk of implant infection.

No tobacco products

Tobacco products can wreak havoc on gums and teeth. Our cosmetic dentists in Louisville who specialize in dental implants will urge prospective implant patients to stop smoking, in particular, before and immediately after implant surgery because smoking slows the body’s healing process and will subsequently slow recovery.

Watch your diet

One reason dental implants are so popular is because the teeth look and function like natural teeth. This means that most all foods and beverages can be consumed and enjoyed. But our cosmetic dentists in Shepherdsville encourage avoiding hard food and sticky candies like taffy. They also caution against consuming boiling-hot beverages and — on the other end of the spectrum — chewing ice.

Dental Implants in Jeffersonville, Indiana, and Louisville and Shepherdsville, Kentucky

After receiving dental implants, our cosmetic dentists at Exceptional Dentistry will send you home with helpful aftercare instructions for your new dental implants. But for the most part, you’ll care for your implants the same way you would care for natural teeth. We are committed to providing you with the best results that will help you feel your best and brightest self. To schedule a consultation, call us at (888) 918-3336 or reach out to us online today!