How to Ensure the Long-Term Success of Dental Implants
By Lan Tran | Published on November 22, 2011 | 0 Comments
Just as with natural teeth, it is important that dental implants are maintained both at home and in the dentist’s office. According to Dr. Lan M. Tran of Tran Dental in San Antonio, dental implants can only last a lifetime if they are well taken care of.
Dental implants cannot get decay in the same way that natural teeth can, which is the reason why many people consider them to be a minimal-maintenance restoration option. Just because dental implants require less maintenance than natural teeth, however, does not mean people can get away with failing to care for them at all, says Dr. Tran.
On the contrary, Dr. Tran explains that dental implants are placed directly into the patient’s bone. Although implants are not susceptible to cavities, per say, patients in San Antonio with dental implants can still get into trouble if they do not come into their dentists’ offices for regular cleanings and check-ups – just as they would with their natural teeth. Dr. Tran recommends that patients with dental implants in San Antonio come into the dentist’s office at least once every six months for check-ups and evaluations to see how their implants are faring. It is important that people with implants get on a regular recall and maintenance program with their dentists.
For people who need help cleaning around their implants at home, Dr. Tran says there are some aids that can be purchased either at the drugstore or from a dentist directly. Depending on which other teeth are missing, or what the patient’s needs are, Dr. Tran can give patients special toothbrushes that get in between teeth in hard to reach areas. She also recommends that patients with implants make sure to floss regularly. Dr. Tran says that brushing using rotary toothbrushes is something that can be effective for patients who have difficulty reaching implants in the backs of their mouths. Special types of water jets can also be helpful to people in San Antonio with dental implants.
The specific tools and products that Dr. Tran is likely to recommend will depend on the patient at hand. The overarching recommendation that applies to all patients, however, is that they get on a routine maintenance schedule in the office and practice good oral hygiene at home on a regular basis. People who are efficient with their brushing and flossing are much less likely to run into trouble with their dental implants down the road.
San Antonio, TX 78227
Phone: 210-690-9430
*Disclaimer: The information on this website is not intended to substitute for the medical expertise and advice of your healthcare provider. We encourage you to discuss any decisions about treatment or care with an appropriate healthcare provider.