After making the choice to have dental implants placed by a highly trained periodontist in Nashville, TN, you definitely want to keep them looking and functioning well for years to come. After all, properly cared for dental implants can last for 20 years or longer. Start making the most of your new dental implants today by implementing a few hygiene and maintenance routines.

1. Keep brushing and flossing twice daily.

You’ve probably heard that you should brush in the morning and before bedtime and floss at least once per day. It is an important practice, especially for the areas around your dental implants. Although the dental crown—the portion of the implant you can see—is not made of actual enamel, it must still be cleaned for maximum whiteness and overall cleanliness.

2. Give your gums the stimulation they need.

In addition to regular flossing around your dental implants, you may want to increase gum stimulation by eating naturally “flossing” foods such as celery and other root vegetables. Gums require a workout to perform their function of protecting the dental implant. An added benefit to choosing crunchy produce items to keep your gums happy? Your body will be fueled by nutritious foods!

3. Call your periodontist at the first sign of infection.

Have you noticed that the area around your dental implants has begun to get redder? Do your gums feel tender or sensitive to the touch? Is there discharge coming from the pocket formed between the gums and implant? These may be signs of peri-implantitis, a treatable condition that usually does not require removal of the dental implants if addressed in its earliest stages. Report any changes in your oral health promptly to your periodontist in Nashville, TN for best outcomes.

4. Always stick with your semi-annual dental check-up schedule.

When your periodontist places your implants, he will discuss how often he would like to see you every year. Be sure to stay on top of your recommended check-up schedule. Check-ups are an opportunity to address any problems before they become more serious.

With just a little bit of care, you can have a winning smile thanks to your dental implants. Want to know more about the implant process, including whether you may be a candidate for single or multiple implants? Contact our office today to arrange an appointment.