Do Dental Implants Require Special Care?

Dental implants have become a very common and successful procedure. The process consists of anchoring posts in the jawbone, then topping them with permanent individual teeth or even bridges. The posts replace the root system in the tooth by fusing with the bone. A crown is placed upon the post. The success rate for this procedure is as high as 98 percent so almost everyone is a candidate for dental implants.

The procedure requires a team of professionals devoted to each aspect of the work. An oral surgeon works as part of this professional team. The surgeon will evaluate your oral tissue health and bone to be sure implants are right for you. Your surgeon also does any required surgical procedures to prepare the mouth and place the implant post. Our experienced professional team serving the Upper York Region can explain how to care for your dental implants.

In general, dental implants do not require special care as far as daily upkeep.  Brush and floss them the same as you would natural teeth. Use an anti-bacterial mouthwash each day as well to keep bacteria at bay. Even though the implants are synthetic material, continuing these practices will keep your gums and bone healthy. This is important because the posts need healthy bone to stay anchored.

In addition, some special care should be taken the first year after the procedure. An appointment schedule for a checkup at the first, third and sixth months should be followed. X-rays will be taken to assure the bone and implant are bonding well and that there is no infection.

Since the implant material, like any other substance, can be worn down slightly from normal chewing, maintain a once a year check in after the first year. Dental implants last for decades.

To learn more about dental implants and to see if you are a candidate, please contact our Upper York Region oral surgery practice at 905-853-3727.