4 Bad Habits to Avoid with Dental Implants

Achieving and maintaining optimal dental health involves addressing tooth loss or extraction through the use of dental implants, providing a durable and aesthetically pleasing solution. However, to preserve the long-term effectiveness of your dental implants, it’s crucial to be mindful of specific habits. This guide explores four detrimental practices that should be avoided to ensure the longevity of your dental implants.

Habit #1: Bad Oral Hygiene

While dental implants are resistant to cavities, it is crucial to prioritize the overall health of your natural teeth. Swift and effective treatment for cavities in your natural teeth is essential to prevent complications, such as tooth infections, which could escalate and potentially lead to necessary extractions.

Neglecting oral health can contribute to the displacement of both implants and natural teeth, potentially resulting in additional tooth loss or implant failure. The risks are further heightened by the presence of gum disease.

Ensuring proper oral hygiene is essential. Regularly brushing your teeth in the morning and at night aids in the removal of plaque and food particles, minimizing the risk of cavities, gum disease, and potential complications that could affect dental implants.

Habit #2: Consuming Too Much Sugar

While sugar might be pleasing to your taste buds, it isn’t the most favorable choice for your dental well-being. Sugar serves as a fuel source for detrimental mouth bacteria, leading to the release of acids that can erode tooth enamel.

This process weakens enamel and heightens the risk of developing cavities. To promote a healthier smile, minimize your sugar intake and incorporate tooth-friendly foods into your diet, including fish, lean meats, leafy greens, dairy products, nuts, and fresh fruits and vegetables.

Habit #3: Smoking or Chewing Tobacco

Engaging in cigarette smoking substantially increases the likelihood of various oral health issues, including gum disease, cavities, and the onset of oral cancer. Furthermore, smoking is a acknowledged contributor to the progression of gum disease, subsequently elevating the risk of experiencing implant failure.

If you’re committed to quitting smoking, consider scheduling an appointment with your dentist, doctor, or therapist. This step will provide you with resources and support to assist you in your journey to quit.

Habit #4: Nail Biting & Using Your Teeth as Tools

Avoiding habits such as nail-biting or using your teeth as tools to open bottles and packages is crucial in preventing cracks or chips in both dental implants and natural teeth. These behaviors can introduce harmful bacteria into your mouth, increasing the risk of developing gum disease and cavities.

Replace these habits with alternatives, like chewing sugar-free gum or sucking on sugar-free hard candy. This substitution will help protect the longevity of your implants and uphold overall oral health.

Securing the durability of your dental implants necessitates a dedication to sound oral habits and the avoidance of detrimental practices. Prioritizing oral hygiene and making positive lifestyle choices sets the stage for enduring implant success in the years to come!

About the Practice

Located in Alexandria and led by Dr. Corey Martinez, Martinez Dentistry is devoted to delivering personalized dental care to patients. Dr. Amburgey and the team at Martinez Dentistry are dedicated to offering insightful guidance on habits to steer clear of if you have dental implants, ensuring the prolonged success of your restorations. For assistance with scheduling appointments or to obtain further information about dental implants, visit the Martinez Dentistry website or reach out to their office at (765) 724-7729.