Treatment and Prevention
Implants can provide a solution for the rest of your life for some, while others experience complications or require additional treatment. Even though the implants and restoration are not natural teeth, your diet and oral care routine are still essential in maintaining your health and their long-term success.
Treatment for complications like loosening or infection typically includes removal and reimplantation by your dental professional. It may reassure you to know that even if your implant fails, reimplantation is successful about 90% of the time.
You can reduce your chance of complications with dental implants by:
- Avoiding smoking and tobacco products
- Preventing gum disease through proper diet and oral care
- Brushing for two minutes twice daily
- Cleaning between your teeth using a flossing device once daily
- Scheduling regular visits with your dental professional
- Properly caring for your dental restorations.
- Don’t grind your teeth (consider a mouthguard at night to help reduce the damage)
If you’re experiencing discomfort or a small amount of swelling after your procedure, there are some home remedies you can make use of. It’s important to remember that reducing pain doesn’t treat its underlying cause, so it’s important to consult your dental professional.
Steps to reduce discomfort following dental implantation:
- Rinse with a mix of 3% hydrogen peroxide and equal parts water, or antibacterial mouthrinse
- Avoid hard, sticky, or chewy foods that could irritate your sensitive mouth.
- Take over-the-counter medications as instructed on the packaging.
- Use a cold compress or ice pack by applying it to the affected area outside your cheek for 20 minutes, three times a day.
Dental implants have positively affected the lives of many, thanks to the ability of titanium to integrate into your bone. Even though your restorations can't get cavities, it's vital to maintain a proper diet and dental routine to avoid complications. By reading this article, you've acquired a comprehensive understanding of dental implants' benefits and risks.