Hygiene and Dental Implant Care.

Proper care of your oral cavity, your mouth, is absolutely no different than anything else you own or anything else in regards to your personal care. The need for dental implants des moines iowa may be the result of any unfortunate accident requiring the extraction of a tooth, or it might be the result of improper oral hygiene. It is never too late to improve on your methods of caring for your teeth and gums. As early as reading this article it is time to address your individualized home care. Then you can visit with your hygienist to help you create good habits. The care of your new implant will be no different than if it was with a natural tooth.

Before you Begin

Before you undergo your implant surgery, after the extraction of the tooth you are replacing, and after the bone grafting has been completed, your dentist should make sure there is no infection prior to beginning. Also at the time of surgery the dentist and his/her hygienist should do an above average job of educating you on proper oral hygiene moving forward.

Daily Home Maintenance

Your implant will require a pinch more brushing and flossing than your natural teeth. Your gum line is more at risk of bacterial build-up. Flossing continues to be important and now with a more specific type; a dental tape. A specific non-abrasive, tarter control toothpaste may be recommended as well as other  available tools such as a water pick, a soft pick, or even specific mouthwashes. Any infection that could develop from poor hygiene could cause the implant to separate from the gum and result in bone loss.

Professional Maintenance

Most of us now pay a professional to maintain our vehicle due to the technological advancements that prohibit our doing so in our own garage. Your dental implant needs professional attention as well. Regular monitoring and maintenance is essential so that the implant outlives you. Your dentist will begin with your history in establishing a baseline on your particular case. Regular x-rays help us see what is below the surface. The examination will include a soft-tissue exam checking for signs of inflammation such as redness and swelling. He/she will monitor your amount of plaque. This varies from patient to patient due to eating habits and personal hygiene at home. Plaque simply breeds infection which can so easily be prevented.

Teamwork

You should also consider scheduling regular return visits to your dentist, two to four times a calendar year. This will allow them to professionally exam and clean your teeth and your new implant. You can expect a regular x-ray of your implant as well to monitor the health of the post and bone. Now revisit the bigger picture. Your new dental implant might dramatically change your smile, your appearance and your live. As we opened, as with anything else in your daily life and habits, neglect will have consequences. Be good to yourself!

Contact Iowa Dental Group Today to see if we can help bring health an happiness to your smile with Dental Implants. We are Located in Des Moines, IA and are available for consultation at (515) 277-6358.