Every year millions of dental implants (artificial dental roots) are inserted, only to later be replaced due to tissue infections. Arising from the accumulation of germs and bacteria around the implant, this can lead to inflammation and eventual jaw degeneration and bone atrophy.
Luckily there are a number of methods you can try, that can preserve the health of your teeth and gums, whilst giving your dental implant the chance to naturally bond with your jaw.
Top Prevention Tips
The most important thing to remember is not every dental implant will end in infection. As long as you’re healthy, follow your post-operation instructions correctly and have had the implants done in a hygienic environment; the risk of infection should be minimal.
However to offer you further protection, here are some preventative ideas that can keep your gums healthy:
Peridex Mouth Wash – this should be used throughout your post-operative period to minimise infection.
Antibiotics – these are a standard protocol that should be combined with the above prescribed mouth wash to cleanse your mouth of germs and prevent colonisation.
Recognising the Signs – peri-implant disease produces similar warning signs to gum disease. So if you notice bleeding gums, receding gums or redness/tenderness around the implant, they are all signs of infection and need to be treated quickly.
Daily Cleaning – it is important when cleaning your teeth that you clean all surfaces above and below your gum line. This is particularly critical after an implant as they can prevent the build-up of bacteria and reduce the risk of infection. We recommend cleaning your teeth at least twice a day for two minutes. Once in the morning, and again before you go to bed. If possible, clean your teeth after you eat, but remember to wait 30 minutes before brushing. Similarly, try to incorporate flossing into your oral hygiene routine as this will halt the build-up of food debris and ultimately bacteria.
Your Health – previous gum disease, smoking and diabetes can all increase your risk of developing an infection, so it is important that you monitor your gum health; keep your diabetes under control (particularly your sugar levels) and try to quit smoking.
Combine all of these together and it is possible to keep your teeth, gums and jaw healthy. So give them a try, and ensure your dental implant has the highest success rate.
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