DDental implants are a reliable tooth replacement option that can last for decades with proper care. However, despite their impressive longevity, several bad habits can shorten their lifespan. To help protect your full smile, you should take steps to avoid them. Here are four questionable habits that can lead to failure and tips to stop them and keep your grin strong and healthy.
Using Your Teeth to Open Packaging
If you need to open up something in plastic packaging, then you may be tempted to just use your teeth. It’s easier to rip it yourself than to find something, but this can actually be harmful! Every time you do this act, it can put your implant under stress.
All it takes is one wrong move, and you can develop a chip or crack, or even a dislodged implant. You’ll need to have your restoration replaced sooner than expected, so just take a minute to find the right tool for the job.
Biting Ice Cubes, Fingernails, & Other Hard Objects
Similar to the point above, biting into these items may seem harmless, but they put too much pressure on your smile. You might end up developing some damage, either to the dental implant post or the restoration on top, so find another way to fidget or ease your anxiety. A stress ball or breathing exercises can be quite helpful.
Chewing or Smoking Tobacco
Using tobacco can slow down your healing after placement surgery and lead to jawbone loss as well. This can increase your risk of gum disease, which can make your implant feel unstable. Not only that, but it also weakens your immune system, so it won’t be able to fight against inflammation as well.
While it’s best to quit entirely to increase your odds of a successful replacement, you may be able to put a temporary hold on it. To know exactly how long, it’s best to talk to your dentist. In the meantime, you can try out other hobbies like exercising to distract you.
Skipping Your Oral Hygiene Routine
One of the biggest threats to implants is bacteria. While the materials themselves can’t decay like enamel, bacteria can attack the supporting tissues. They can get infected and cause a myriad of problems, including total dental implant failure when left untreated. Thankfully, by brushing and flossing twice a day, you can remove plaque and debris in your mouth to keep it strong.
You should also be visiting your dentist consistently. They are trained to watch for signs of failure and take steps against it. That way, you can enjoy your full smile for decades to come and get the most out of your investment.
About the Author
Dr. Xhelo Shuaipaj earned his dental degree from the Loyola University College of Dental Surgery. He has advanced training that allows him to place dental implants in his office, so you stay with him and his team every step of the way. If you want to know how you can keep your restored grin for years to come, schedule an appointment or call Dr. Xhelo’s Downers Grove or Lemont office.