Dental Implant Basics Oral Hygiene for Single Missing Tooth Replacement
A single tooth dental implant is a great solution for a missing tooth due to an accident or periodontal disease. It restores biting and chewing capabilities and improves both speech and the appearance of your smile. It is still important, however, to care for dental implants just as you would your natural teeth to maintain good oral health and prevent infection.
You may have a missing tooth due to gum disease or an accident. If so, your dentist can help you decide which teeth implant option is right for you. There are several types of dental implants available depending on the situation. Tooth replacement options include implant-supported dentures, All-on-4 full jaw dental implants, multiple teeth implants, and a single teeth implant.
Your dentist can refer you to a dental implant specialist for a consultation. EON Clinics offers a free consultation with CT scan where you will be able to meet with a prosthodontist, oral surgeon, or periodontist to discuss which treatment plan is right for you. We serve patients throughout Chicagoland, southern Wisconsin and northwest Indiana. Schedule a free consultation online today or call us at 800-250-3500.
Dental Implant Procedures
The dental implant is placed in the jaw through surgery performed by a prosthodontist, oral surgeon, or periodontist. Titanium implants are attached to the jawbone where they fuse with the bone to create a permanent orthodontic anchor. This creates a base for an abutment to be attached. An artificial tooth is then placed on top of this abutment. During surgery, the patient is under either local or general anesthesia. After the dental implant treatment, pain is treated with over-the-counter pain medications. Read our blog post, “How Long is the Dental Implant Recovery Process?” for more information and tips on a speedy dental implant recovery.
Practice Good Oral Hygiene
Mild (gingivitis) and severe (periodontitis) gum disease is a common cause of tooth loss. Symptoms of gum disease include swelling, loose teeth, painful bleeding gums, and bad breath. Proper oral hygiene is necessary to protect natural teeth and implants from tooth decay. Here are a few things you should do to ensure the implant stays strong.
Regular Cleanings and Checkups Including X-rays
It is important to visit your dentist for regular cleanings and exams. Your dentist may also require x-rays every three to six months to monitor the success of the surgery and annual x-rays thereafter. This will ensure the implants haven’t shifted and are working properly. At EON Clinics, we recommend that our dental implant patients come in for regular cleanings every 6 months, just as you would with natural teeth.
Brush, Floss, Rinse, Repeat
Brush your teeth twice a day to remove plaque and tartar that causes gum disease. A soft-bristle toothbrush is recommended. A water jet is useful in getting small particles of food out from in between teeth. Floss twice a day with unwaxed tape or floss. Your periodontist or dental hygienist may recommend a floss that is made especially for implants. Rinse with an antimicrobial mouth rinse.
Food and Drinks to Be Careful With
Hot drinks can cause pain in the area of a single tooth implant. Let drinks cool and sip with caution. Hard foods such as candy and raw vegetables can get caught between the implant and natural teeth. Sticky foods can also push and pull at the dental implants loosening them over time. Be mindful when eating these foods.
Follow the tips above and you’ll keep smiling both inside and out. If you think a single tooth implant may be a good option for replacing your missing tooth, schedule a free consultation online today or call us at 800-250-3500.