Dental implants are a permanent solution for missing teeth. They take the place not only of the visible portion of the tooth, but also the tooth root, providing a complete replacement that not only allows for a natural look and comfortable performance but also helps maintain the health of your jawbone. If you are considering dental implants in Toronto, here is some information about long term care of dental implants.
Caring for Dental Implants
The everyday care of your dental implants depends upon the type of implant you have. In most cases, permanent implants can be cared for through regular brushing and flossing, just like your natural teeth. If your implants involve a removable denture affixed to the root portion of the implant, a different care routine will be required. Be sure to consult with your implant dentist regarding care to be sure your implants last and look good for years to come.
It is also important to protect dental implants from staining. The material from which the visible portion of your implants is made is susceptible to staining just like natural tooth enamel. If you drink large quantities of coffee or tea, or if you smoke, stains can build up on your implants in the same way that stains can build up on the teeth they replaced.
Advantages of Dental Implants
Unlike dentures, dental implants do not need to be removed to be cleaned (although some implants are meant to support a removable denture—consult your implant dentist regarding what type of implant is best for your individual situation). They can be brushed in the mouth just like natural teeth, using a toothbrush and toothpaste. This convenience is one of many advantages that dental implants offer over traditional dentures or bridges.
Dental implants also help stimulate the natural growth of the jawbone. Loss of bone mass in the jaw is an unfortunate side effect of denture use, since dentures do not have tooth roots to encourage bone growth. This helps you maintain a more youthful appearance even if you have lost multiple teeth.
For more information on caring for your dental implants, please contact the office of Dr. Nicholas Kemp at 416.922.1012.