How to Prevent an Infection in Your Dental Implants

For individuals who need to restore or replace damaged or missing teeth, dental implants are lasting, high-quality restoration options. The process can be lengthy from start to finish, but this dental appliance gives patients results worth waiting for. However, without the right aftercare, an infection can form and cause extreme discomfort to a patient. Proper dental hygiene and prevention efforts can reduce the likelihood of infection setting in.

Who needs dental implants?

For adults who have experienced tooth loss as a result of mouth trauma, infection, decay, or another reason, implants are alternatives to bridges and dentures. Adolescents who have gone through the phase of facial development, generally past the age 16 for girls and 18 for boys, may also be good candidates. These appliances are designed to last for many decades, protect healthy teeth and facial bones, and provide a permanent tooth replacement option.

How can infections be prevented?

As with any treatment or procedure, following the instructions of the care provider is crucial for avoiding complications. With implants, these four tips can reduce the chance of developing an infection as the wound in the mouth heals, second to the dental professional's advice.

1. Rinse regularly

The mouth is a gathering place for bacteria, and removing plaque is one of the reasons teeth brushing is so important. During the healing after the implant procedure, there is a greater concern that bacteria can form inside the wound and cause infection. Thoroughly rinsing the mouth out helps keep the wound and mouth free from harmful germs. Saltwater or mouthwash are both effective in keeping the area clean.

2. Keep up with dental hygiene

Even without implants, it is recommended that good oral hygiene include brushing and flossing at least twice a day. In the days immediately following the procedure, brushing must be gentle near the area around the wound. However, do not avoid brushing, as the surrounding teeth could harbor bacteria or particles that can cause infection. Flossing is also important, as this process removes particles trapped between the teeth.

3. Maintain dental checkups

The provider who placed the dental implants will give a schedule of when to visit the office for a checkup. The wound will be evaluated to ensure that bacteria are not forming, and in addition to preventative measures, a patient may be prescribed a medication to address signs of infection.

4. Avoid damaging foods

As far as dental health is considered, food and drinks that are high in sugar should be avoided. Sugary substances increase the amount of bacteria that gets trapped in hard-to-reach places, increasing the threat of infection. Rinsing directly after consuming foods high in sugar can help reduce the risk.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp:
Dental Implants in Emerson, NJ

Conclusion

Dental implants are a reliable way to restore uniformity, function, and beauty to a mouth with lost teeth, but an infection can make the healing process more difficult. It is much easier to adopt healthy oral hygiene habits to prevent the risk of infection, rather than trying to deal with the pain and process of clearing one up.

Request an appointment or call Emerson Dental Associates at 201-620-9998 for an appointment in our Emerson office.

Recent Posts

Multiple Dental Implants Vs. Dental Bridge

Dental implants are a great way to replace multiple missing teeth. A dental bridge is also a solution for multiple teeth replacement in many cases as well. By learning more about the pros and cons of each option, it will help you decide which treatment option is right for you. Missing teeth create a cosmetic, functional…

Are Dental Implants Worthwhile

If you have one or more missing teeth that need to be replaced, dental implants can help fill in your smile. This option allows patients to accomplish several goals, including enhancing appearance and restoring function. However, implants can cost patients a lot upfront, leading patients to wonder if this solution is worth the price.It is…

Why Do You Need Dental Implants

Dental implants have joined the list of replacement options for missing teeth, with many patients preferring the look and feel of implants to dentures or bridges. In addition to providing patients with natural-looking teeth, implants are effective in restoring confidence and making eating or speaking more comfortable. They also can improve an individual’s oral health.…

Dr. Martini

Share
Published by
Dr. Martini

Recent Posts

4 Things You May Not Have Known About Clear Braces

Many have heard about clear braces, but it is helpful to understand more about what…

2 days ago

When Denture Repair is Needed

Dentures and partial dentures require denture repair as needed, depending on the stage of your…

1 month ago

Transforming Your Smile: Steps to a Successful Smile Makeover

A smile makeover is a cosmetic process that alters the aesthetic of the smile without…

2 months ago

Hard Reline Versus Soft Reline for Dentures

Hard and soft denture relines are similar. In both cases, the dentist removes some of…

3 months ago

What Oral Appliances Are Used in Dentistry to Treat Sleep Apnea?

There are several treatment options available for patients with sleep apnea. The following is a…

4 months ago

How Dental Crowns Affect Your Smile

Dental crowns look similar to natural teeth, so no one will be able to tell…

5 months ago