Taking care of dental implants is very similar to taking care of natural teeth, which is one of the reasons why implants are such a popular treatment for missing teeth. Oral hygiene is just as important when you have dental implants, and it’s crucial to maintain healthy gum tissue and supporting jaw bone to keep them stable.
Dr. Mark Jefferies is a Herndon, VA implant dentist focused on helping you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile. Learn more about how to care for your dental implants to keep your smile looking great and functioning at its best.
Can Dental Implants Get Infected?
Because dental implants are made of metal, the implant itself will not decay or form a cavity. The same goes for the artificial tooth, called the crown – it is never going to develop a cavity. However, the gum tissue surrounding the implant can become inflamed in an infection called implantitis, which affects the soft and hard tissues surrounding the implants.
Dental implants can become covered in the same bacteria that cause gum disease in natural teeth, forming dental calculus. This is a rough and hard deposit that can destroy the gum tissue surrounding the implant, putting it at risk of becoming loose or failing entirely. Calculus cannot be removed by brushing or flossing and must be removed by a dental hygienist.
How to Keep Dental Implants Healthy
You can prevent dental implant failure from infection by maintaining good oral hygiene. Remove plaque by brushing twice a day and flossing every day. Be sure to floss around all sides of the implant and remove plaque from the gum line to prevent calculus buildup.
Your implants also require regular examinations by your dentist. Even individuals with a full arch of dental implants should get X-rays and exams to ensure their implants are still functioning properly. Your dentist will inspect the gums around the implant and check that the implant is attached properly.
Dental Implant Care in Herndon, VA
Dr. Jefferies and his team offer a variety of cosmetic dentistry options to help patients restore their smiles. We believe that with the right treatment plan and proper care, your smile can stay healthy for a lifetime. Schedule an appointment with us online today or call our office at 703-570-1152.