What Are Bad Habits to Avoid with Dental Implants?

When you have missing teeth, there are several avenues you can pursue with your dentist in Oklahoma City, and all of them are better than taking no action. Most dentists will tell you dental implants are the premier option for tooth replacement. There are definitely some bad habits that can potentially harm them, so read on to find out actions you should avoid after getting dental implants.

Biting Items That Are Not Foods

A common nervous habit that people have is chewing on things that aren’t meant to be chewed on like ice cubes, pens, or straws. This can put too much pressure on your implants and even damage the bone that secures them.

Brushing Too Intensely

To keep your oral health in good standing, you need to be brushing your teeth at least twice each day. If you aren’t brushing properly, this can be just as bad as not brushing at all. If you use too much force, you could damage both your protective enamel and gum tissue.

To maintain strong dental implants, you must have healthy gums. Brushing too hard can cause gum recession over time. Be sure that you are using a soft-bristled toothbrush and applying gentle pressure.

Chewing Your Fingernails

This is a habit that can be difficult to stop, but it is worth taking the time to do so. When you bite your nails, you are bringing bacteria and viruses into your body in the process, increasing your chances of becoming sick. Even though your implants are exceptionally durable, they are not indestructible.

Biting your nails can cause you to chip or break your teeth. It also puts pressure on your jaw when it protrudes for an extended period of time. You could even end up tearing your gum tissue. To discontinue this habit, try taking steps to reduce stress, use bitter nail polish, or invest in a manicure.

Using Your Teeth as a Tool

It may seem more convenient to use your teeth to do jobs like open packaging, pop open bottles, or cut through thread. However, your dental implants do not have a periodontal ligament to cushion them, so they are especially vulnerable to both pulling and twisting forces.

Smoking

Smoking can increase your gum disease risk. It also interferes with the regrowth of bone. Overall, it can double your odds of dental implant failure. If you quit smoking, you’re more likely to have your dental implants for life.

Skipping Flossing

It’s even more important to floss around your dental implants than to brush them. The main reason dental implants fail is they develop gum disease, and flossing is vital to removing plaque and food debris that can cause it.

Dental implants can make a significant difference in your smile, but you must put them in the best position to be a successful tooth replacement option. If you take care of them daily, they will help provide you with a great smile, plus you’ll be able to chew your food more effectively and even talk more clearly. Visit your implant dentist in Oklahoma City for a consultation to get started on tooth replacement.

About the Author

Dr. Jeffrey Hermen has been working hard for the smiles of patients in Oklahoma City, Edmond, Deer Creek, Piedmont, Yukon, and surrounding areas for more than 30 years. He earned his dental doctorate from the University of Oklahoma and is a member of the Oklahoma Dental Association. Dr. Hermen loves attending continuing education courses to stay current in the dental field. If you are interested in dental implants, he is partnered with trusted oral surgeons for optimal results and offers reasonable prices with no hidden fees. You can schedule a consultation on his website or by calling (405) 621-2100.