A smile is one of the best accessories you can wear, so we all want to protect our teeth and keep our smiles gleaming. So, when tooth loss does occur, due to injury or disease, it can be a real blow to your confidence. Luckily, there are plenty of options when it comes to correcting your smile after tooth loss.

Dentures and dental bridges can be effective solutions after tooth loss, but an increasingly popular option is dental implants.

What are dental implants?

Dental implants essentially act as the roots of your teeth. They are titanium frames that are placed underneath the gum tissue through a surgical procedure. As the gum heals, the jawbone forms around the implant, fixing it in place. A dentist can then mount a crown, bridge, or even dentures onto the implant for a secure tooth replacement that looks and feels natural.

Find out if you’re eligible for dental implants.

Caring for your dental implants

Once you’ve got an implant, don’t just forget about it! Even though your replacement tooth can’t get a cavity, you still need to keep caring for your dental implant to keep it in a good condition. Here are a few tips for maintaining your dental implant.

• Maintain good oral hygiene – It’s important to keep up a good brushing and flossing routine to make sure the area around the implant stays clean and doesn’t become infected or diseased. Pay special attention to your replacement tooth, especially around the gums and between the teeth either side of it.
• Special instruments – If you’re finding it difficult to reach all the areas around your implant with your regular toothbrush, then it’s recommended that you buy special brushes to help you care for your implant. Interspace and interdental brushes can help you access those hard to reach areas.
• Regular examinations – Visiting your dentist regularly is also important so they can keep an eye on the health of your implant. Going for exams and cleanings every six months can help to keep your implant in top condition.
• No smoking – Smoking is a major risk factor for developing periodontal disease, one of the leading causes of tooth loss. Smoking can weaken your bone structure, providing a less solid base for your implant. It also weakens your immune system, giving you a higher risk for developing gum disease.

If you’re interested in dental implants, contact us to find out more. We’re located in Advance, North Carolina, and we provide a wide range of affordable dental services.