5 Lifestyle Changes That Will Help Your Dental Implants Last

Are you considering dental implants because of their long lifespan? While they can last for 30+ years, the longevity of yours will depend largely on your habits. With this in mind, keep reading to learn five lifestyle changes that will help your dental implants last!

1. Quit Smoking

In short, smoking dramatically increases your risk of dental implant failure. So, at the very minimum, you will need to avoid using tobacco products in the weeks leading up to your procedure and for several months afterward. If you’ve had trouble quitting in the past, don’t hesitate to let your dentist know. They aren’t there to judge you; they are there to help!

2. Move Your Body

Moving your body daily – whether it’s going on a leisurely walk, swimming, lifting weights, or running – can help improve your immune system. This, in turn, helps your body combat infection and aids healing. Since one of the most common causes of dental implant failure is peri-implantitis (a form of gum disease), it’s important to make movement a part of your daily routine.

3. Commit to Good Oral Hygiene Habits at Home

Although your dental implants cannot decay, your teeth can, and your gums can develop an infection. That’s why it’s so important that you commit to good oral hygiene habits at home. That starts with brushing for two full minutes each morning and extends to flossing and rinsing with mouthwash before you go to bed at night.

4. Visit Your Dentist Twice a Year

Even if your smile is comprised entirely of dental implants, you need to schedule a dental checkup and cleaning every six months. Not only does this ensure that your dentist can examine the condition of your dental implants periodically, but it also prevents large cavities, gum disease, and other serious oral health problems from developing.

5. Stick to a Well-Balanced Diet

Simply put, some foods are better for your smile than others. Hard pretzels, for example, aren’t packed with nutrients, and their crunchy consistency can cause your restoration or one of your teeth to break. For similar reasons, patients should steer clear of extremely sticky snacks, like gummy worms, as well as treats that are loaded with added sugar. Lean proteins, seasonal fruits, and raw vegetables are much better for your oral and overall health!

About the Practice

Our top-rated team at Vollo Dental Group has an important mission: to help our patients have healthy, strong, beautiful, and complete smiles. If tooth loss is currently standing in your way, then you’ll be happy to hear that we provide the entire dental implant treatment under one roof, we have convenient hours, and we welcome several financial solutions. If you’d like to schedule your next visit, then get in touch with us via our website or call (585) 225-9114.