Tooth loss is one of the most common health problems on Earth, and it can lead to serious issues like malnutrition, indigestion, dental misalignments, oral infections, and the destruction of more teeth. Thankfully, today’s dentists can replace lost teeth with lifelike and functional dental implants that look, work, and feel just like the real thing. Here’s a brief guide to a few positive lifestyle changes you can make to help your new teeth last their longest.
Watch What You Eat and Drink
While dental implants are immune to tooth decay, the gum tissue and bone structure that support them can become compromised by infections. An excellent way to reduce this risk is to avoid excessive consumption of foods and beverages that are high in sugar or acid since sugar feeds the harmful bacteria that cause oral infections and acid irritates gum tissue and erodes natural enamel. A few items to watch out for include:
- Soda
- Hot sauce
- Alcoholic beverages
- Candy, especially sticky or hard treats
- Starchy foods like French fries or potato chips
Luckily, this leaves plenty of delicious and nutritious foods with interesting textures like steak, fresh veggies, and raw fruits on the menu so you won’t have to worry about a boring diet.
Don’t Abuse Your Teeth
Your teeth should only be used for smiling and chewing, and any other use you put them to counts as dental abuse. To protect your dental implants and your remaining natural teeth, avoid the following actions:
- Using your teeth to open bottles
- Using your teeth to tear open packaging
- Chewing on ice and non-food items like writing utensils and toothpicks
- Grinding your teeth in frustration
If you grind your teeth when you sleep, be sure to mention the issue to your dentist so they can provide you with a customized nightguard.
Quit Smoking
Tobacco use is completely horrible for your oral health in a plethora of ways, and this nasty habit can compromise your dental implants by eroding the health of the gums. When exposed to the noxious chemicals in tobacco smoke or juice, your gums will harden in defense, which will gradually exhaust them if they have to do so frequently. This can lead to gum recession as well as unsightly stains on your teeth and implants. Quitting smoking is one of the best things you can do for your artificial teeth and your oral health.
Don’t let a few bad habits wreck your beautiful dental implants. By treating your new teeth with respect and giving them excellent care, you can keep them looking great and working well for many years to come.
About the Practice
Northampton Dental Specialists Group offers the finest oral health services in town. Led by Drs. Boriana Canby, Claire Edwards, Binca Warren, and Ian M. Wall, the staff ensures that each patient receives exemplary care and sincere compassion in a warm and friendly environment. Areas of expertise include general, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry as well as dental implants. To learn more about the best ways to care for your dental implants, contact the office online or dial the desk at (413) 584-5199.
