Dental implants are a long-lasting and highly effective solution for missing teeth. With proper care, they can last 15 years or more, and in many cases, even a lifetime. However, much like natural teeth, their success and longevity depend heavily on your daily habits and lifestyle choices. Here are 5 lifestyle changes you can make to ensure your dental implants stay strong, functional, and beautiful for years to come.
1. Commit to Excellent Oral Hygiene
While dental implants are artificial, the surrounding gum tissue and bone are not. This means they are still susceptible to infection and inflammation, particularly peri-implantitis, a condition similar to gum disease that can lead to implant failure.
To keep your implants clean and your gums healthy:
- Brush at least twice a day for two minutes.
- Use non-abrasive toothpaste to avoid scratching your implants.
- Floss daily around the implant area to remove plaque and food particles.
- Consider adding an antibacterial mouthwash to your routine.
2. Stop Smoking or Vaping
Tobacco use is one of the leading risk factors for dental implant failure. Smoking reduces blood flow to the gums, slows healing, and increases the likelihood of infection. It can also lead to bone loss around the implant over time.
If you’re a smoker, quitting is one of the most important things you can do to protect your oral health and your overall well-being.
3. Adopt a Healthy Diet
The food you eat plays a big role in supporting both your implants and the surrounding bone. A balanced diet that includes calcium, vitamin D, and protein helps maintain strong bone density and tissue health.
Avoid or limit:
- Sugary and acidic foods that can inflame gums or weaken oral structures.
- Sticky or hard foods that could damage crowns or prosthetics.
- Excessive alcohol, which may irritate your gums and dry out your mouth.
Hydrate regularly and choose nutrient-rich foods to support healing and overall oral health.
4. Protect Your Implants from Physical Damage
Certain habits and activities can put unnecessary stress on your implants. Avoid:
- Chewing on ice, pens, or fingernails.
- Using your teeth as tools to open packages or bottles.
- Grinding or clenching your teeth (bruxism).
If you grind your teeth at night, talk to your dentist about getting a custom nightguard to protect your implants and surrounding teeth.
5. Don’t Skip Dental Visits
Even with implants, you still need regular professional care. Schedule dental checkups at least twice a year, or as recommended by your dentist. These visits allow your dentist to:
- Monitor the health of your implants and gums.
- Professionally clean hard-to-reach areas.
- Catch and treat potential problems early.
Dental implants are an investment in your health, confidence, and quality of life. By making a few smart lifestyle changes, such as maintaining excellent hygiene, eating well, avoiding harmful habits, and seeing your dentist regularly, you can help ensure your implants remain strong and functional for many years to come.
About the Practice
Are you interested in the number-one rated solution for missing teeth? At Advanced Prosthodontics & Implant Esthetics, we can place dental implants as a long-term or even lifetime restoration, giving you your looks, functionality, and confidence back. Our specialty prosthodontists will provide you with the best care available, and you’ll enjoy it all in a relaxing dental office with a spa-like atmosphere. If this sounds like the treatment you’ve been waiting for, schedule an appointment online with us or call (239) 775-2455.