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 New York, NY

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 New York Dental Office at 212-548-3261 for an appointment in our New York office.

Recent Posts

How Long Do Dental Implants Last?

Dental implants are one of the most common ways to replace missing teeth in general dentistry nowadays. These are screws or rods (typically made out of titanium) that can serve as artificial teeth roots. Oral restorations like crowns are fitted to implants to replace missing teeth. Implants are constructed to last a lifetime, but the…

Securely Replace Missing Teeth With Dental Implants

The introduction of dental implants has provided a solution to tooth replacement that goes beyond mere function to address the core of personal well-being. Loss of teeth has an impact on a lot more than just dental health — it impacts chewing, talking ability, and confidence. This is where dental implants come into play as…

When Would You Need Dental Implants?

If you have ever critically damaged or lost a tooth and had it repaired, you probably had a dental implant set. A dental implant is a metal fixture installed by a dentist that fuses to the jawbone via a process called osseointegration. This allows for artificial teeth to be securely placed on top of it.…

Corey Brick, DDS

Share
Published by
Corey Brick, DDS

Recent Posts

How to Clean and Maintain Your Dentures for Optimal Oral Health

Dentures are the way to go if you are looking for an affordable way to…

4 days ago

Choosing an Adult Orthodontics Option

Having an attractive smile will give you a boost of confidence, and adult orthodontics may…

4 days ago

3 Signs You Need Your Dentures Relined

The need for relining your dentures may not occur to you because of your busy…

6 days ago

Types of Dentures: Which Is the Best Option for You?

Dentures can replace teeth right away. It is a common solution to tooth loss. Because…

2 weeks ago

What to Expect After Getting Full Dentures

Full dentures can replace the teeth of each dental arch. Your gums and saliva will…

2 weeks ago

What to Expect When Getting Partial Dentures

Partial dentures are one of the missing teeth replacement options you get to choose from…

3 weeks ago