Mini dental implants can be a great, life-changing experience. Patients find they can quickly resume everyday tasks in a matter of just days, such as eating foods they haven’t been able to in years. However, just like your natural teeth, mini dental implants require that you take care of them. Depending on your implant attachment type, your maintenance approach may be different. Learn more about Tips for Maintaining Mini Dental Implants.
Tips for Maintaining Mini Dental Implants and Fixed Bridges
Caring for a single mini dental implant is similar to caring for your natural teeth. A single mini dental implant is typically a fixed crown that is not removable. You may also have a fixed bridge that can also not be removed. Brush your teeth twice a day with a soft-bristle toothbrush to clean the teeth. Remember to change your toothbrush out every three months if you get sick. If you have a water flosser, such as a WaterPik, these work really well for flushing debris from the areas around the gumline. We recommend using a low-abrasive toothpaste with fluoride to remove debris and strengthen the enamel on your natural teeth. Take care to brush around the dental implant crown or bridge. Next, we recommend flossing your teeth twice a day before or after brushing them. You can floss your teeth with specific implant floss or with unwaxed floss. It’s important not to use flossers around your implants as they can become stuck and may cause the crown or bridge to loosen. Additionally, it’s important to continue dental visits for your annual hygiene check-up, as this will keep your overall oral health at its best.
Caring for Removable Dentures
Caring for removable dentures that snap-onto dental implants are similar to caring for traditional dentures. Before bed, snap off the denture and soak it in a cleanser. This only takes a few minutes. When cleaning your denture, Dr. Ackerman’s office provides a denture brush and recommends not to use common toothpastes – there are specific denture toothpastes that are low-abrasive so as not to damage the denture. Lastly, rinse the dentures off with water. At Freedom Mini Dental Implants we recommend that our patients with dentures replace their o-rings once a year. If it is time for you to replace your o-rings, call our dental office today to schedule an appointment.
Be Careful What You Eat With Dental Implants
Dr. Ackerman recommends eating foods within reason. That is, if it’s not good for your natural teeth then it’s not good for mini dental supported teeth. Enjoy steaks, nuts, carrots, but be careful chewing hard ice, hard candies, and those foods your dentist always warned you about, like super sticky candy (e.g. Sugar Daddies, Now and Laters, etc.).
Maintaining Mini Dental Implants with Regular Dental Visits
We recommend that our patients care for their mini dental implants at home and in our office. Above are the at-home mini dental implant care instructions. Visit your dentist every six months for a regular dental exam and cleanings. Regular cleanings will ensure that debris and plaque are removed from your teeth to prevent tooth and gum decay. Additionally, your dentist will examine your teeth and diagnose any dental concerns they may find. Treating dental problems early can save you both time and money. Further, it can prevent a dental problem from getting worse.
Mini dental implants are an investment that can enhance the look and feel of your smile for a long, long time. At Freedom Mini Dental Implants we offer a wide range of services using our mini dental implants, including singular crowns and complete dentures. Caring for your mini dental implant is essential. Remember to always use a soft-bristle toothbrush, keep your dental hygiene appointments, and call our office if you have any concerns. For more information about mini dental implants or to schedule an appointment, call our office today.
