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Dental implants are remarkable prosthetic dental appliances that have restored the appearance and function of countless smiles. With excellent care, these amazing tooth-replacement devices can remain in excellent condition for a lifetime, and the postsurgical healing process is a crucial to setting your implants up for long-term success. Here are a few habits to avoid while recovering from dental implant surgery.
Skip the Sugar
Humans love sugar because it is loaded with simple chemical energy that can be easily metabolized, and the harmful bacteria that cause oral infections love it for exactly the same reason. Sadly, this means that many sweet foods and beverages leave your mouth coated with a sugary residue that can fuel the multiplication of germs that cause gum disease. Gum infections are one of the leading causes of implant failure, so it’s best to stick to a bland, mild diet while your mouth is still healing.
Snuff the Smoke
Tobacco is completely horrible for practically every aspect of your oral health, and smoking or chewing this plant will increase your likelihood of dental implant failure at any stage of the appliance’s lifecycle. Nicotine, the addictive drug in tobacco, has the side effect of causing blood vessels to constrict, which makes it harder for the gums to heal and fight infection. The noxious chemicals these products contain also cause the gum tissue to harden in defense, which can exhaust them over time and lead to recession.
It’s a good idea to quit smoking at least two weeks before your implant surgery and refrain from tobacco for at least several months afterward. However, it’s ideal to quit completely.
Stall the Spirits
While many people enjoy having a cocktail or a glass of wine to celebrate a joyous occasion, it’s best to abstain from drinking for two weeks after receiving dental implants. Alcohol can interfere with the gums’ healing process and prevent adequate amounts of blood from reaching the developing bone tissue, which can severely undermine your implant’s long-term success.
Don’t let a few bad habits sabotage your beautiful new teeth. Consulting with your dentist can help you find out more about the best ways to keep your dental implants healthy for the long haul.
About the Author
Dr. Ashraf Seif earned his dental degree at the Loma Linda School of Dentistry where he served as a part-time clinical instructor. He is proud to serve as a member of the American Dental Association and the Texas Dental Association. His office in Baytown offers general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry as well as dental implants. To learn more about proper dental implant care, contact his office online or dial (281) 837-9122.