Dental implants are one of the most popular means of replacing missing teeth. They are a permanent tooth replacement solution, and they help keep the jaw and gums healthy even if you’ve lost many or all of your teeth. Dental implants require an investment of both time and money, so it is important that you take proper care of them to ensure that they last a lifetime. It is also important to choose the right Las Vegas dentist for dental implants. Dr. Kevin and his team at BaaBee Dentistry care are experts in the field of tooth replacement and act as a partner with patients in the care of their dental implants.
Immediate After Care
Immediately after your dental implant procedure, it is crucial to follow the dentist’s orders to the letter so that your jaw and gum tissue heal quickly and properly. Dr. Kevin may prescribe special mouth rinses and/or antibiotics to help the healing process. Use these as directed. If you experience bleeding, excessive swelling that isn’t improving, or fever, call the dentist’s office immediately. Other tips to consider in the first few days after dental implant surgery include:
- Drink only clear liquids for the first day or so.
- Eat only soft food that don’t require much chewing.
- You may not be able to brush for a few days after your implants are placed. Be sure to use the mouth rinse prescribed to you as directed to keep your mouth clean and free of bacteria.
- When you are able to brush, use a very soft bristle toothbrush – ask Dr. K for recommendations. It is important to not treat the new implant too roughly as it begins to heal.
Long Term Care Of Dental Implants
Once your mouth is healed, you should continue to take special care of your dental implants. They require more attention than your natural teeth, and proper care is important to ensure they do not break, chip, crack, become inflamed, or become infected. That may sound scary, but if you develop good habits quickly, your dental implants can last a lifetime.
Taking care of your implants at home means:
- Brushing after every meal, when you wake up and before you go to sleep.
- Flossing twice a day, as directed by Dr. K.
- Using the proper toothpaste and toothbrush, as recommended by Dr. Kevin.
- Rinsing with mouthwash and mouth rinses after brushing and flossing.
- Using a rubber tip stimulator to clean the gums and teeth/crowns.
- Not chewing hard, sticky or gummy substances on your dental implants.
It is also extremely important to maintain your bi-annual visits to the dentist’s office. Not only do these visits help ensure your remaining teeth and gums stay healthy, but they allow Dr. Kevin to keep an eye on your dental implants. He can spot any minor issues before they become major problems. For some dental implant patients, it is recommended that they visit the dentist three times per year for a checkup. You can discuss your exam schedule with Dr. Kevin to determine the right frequency for you.
Choosing The Right Dentist
Dental implants require an investment of time and money on your part, but it is an investment that can have lifelong return. When you choose to make a lifelong investment in dental implants, you want to choose a dentist with whom you can also have a long relationship. Dr. Kevin of BaaBee Dentistry in Las Vegas believes strongly in the doctor-patient relationship. He and his staff go out of their way to ensure all patients are comfortable and satisfied with their dental work. Whether you need one implant or many, Dr. K will work with you to create the best and healthiest smile possible.
And if you are a patient who currently has dental implants but you aren’t satisfied with the relationship you have with your dentist, contact BaaBee Dentistry in Las Vegas for an appointment to learn more about their patient care philosophy. They are willing and able to help you care for your dental implants.