Dental implants are a long-lasting and highly effective solution for replacing missing teeth. Designed to look, feel, and function like natural teeth, implants can restore your smile and improve oral health. While dental implants are durable, they still require proper care to ensure their longevity. Certain habits can compromise implant success and even lead to complications. Here are 4 bad habits to avoid if you want to protect your dental implants.
1. Poor Oral Hygiene
One of the biggest misconceptions about dental implants is that they don’t require the same level of care as natural teeth. While implants cannot develop cavities, the surrounding gum tissue and bone are still vulnerable to infection. Poor oral hygiene can lead to peri-implantitis, a condition similar to gum disease that can cause inflammation, bone loss, and implant failure.
To keep your implants healthy, brush at least twice daily using a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste. Flossing is equally important because it removes plaque and food particles from areas your toothbrush cannot reach. Your dentist may also recommend special floss, interdental brushes, or water flossers to help maintain your implants. Regular dental checkups and professional cleanings are essential for monitoring implant health and preventing complications.
2. Smoking or Using Tobacco Products
Smoking and tobacco use significantly increase the risk of implant failure. Tobacco restricts blood flow to the gums, slowing healing and increasing the likelihood of infection. Since dental implants rely on proper healing and bone integration, smoking can interfere with the process and reduce the success rate of the procedure.
Additionally, tobacco use increases the risk of gum disease, which can weaken the tissues supporting your implant. If you currently smoke or use tobacco products, consider quitting or reducing usage before and after implant placement. Doing so can greatly improve your oral health and the long-term success of your dental implants.
3. Chewing on Hard Objects
Dental implants are strong, but they are not indestructible. Chewing on hard objects such as ice, pens, fingernails, or hard candy can place excessive pressure on your implant crown. Over time, this habit may cause chipping, cracking, or loosening of the restoration. In some cases, it can even damage the implant structure or surrounding bone.
Instead, be mindful of what you chew and avoid using your teeth as tools to open packages or bottles. If you frequently chew on hard objects due to stress or habit, talk to your dentist about strategies to break the habit and protect your implants.
4. Skipping Dental Visits
Routine dental visits play a crucial role in maintaining the health and function of your dental implants. Skipping checkups allows plaque buildup, gum inflammation, and potential implant issues to go undetected. Early signs of complications are often painless, meaning you may not realize there is a problem until significant damage has occurred.
Your dentist will examine your implants, check the surrounding tissues, and professionally clean areas that are difficult to reach at home. Attending regular appointments allows your dental team to catch and treat minor concerns before they become major problems.
Dental implants are an excellent investment in your smile and oral health. By maintaining good hygiene, avoiding tobacco, being mindful of chewing habits, and keeping up with dental visits, you can help ensure your implants remain strong and functional for many years to come.
About the Author
Dr. Meadvin has spent more than 2 decades in the dental field so far. She achieved her Doctor of Dental Medicine degree at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine and pursued her AEGD certificate at the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey. Today, Dr. Meadvin is passionate about continuing education; she’s part of the Faculty Club at Spear Education and past president of the Southern Dental Society. Currently, she’s a member of the New Jersey Dental Association and the American Dental Association. If you’d like dental implants, we’d like to meet you. Book an appointment online or by calling (856) 428-8822.