Local Cosmetic Dentist | Now that you have received a dental implant from your local cosmetic dentist, you will want to care for it to ensure that it lasts for as long as possible. Implants are a great way to replace one or more natural teeth. Although the materials that implants are constructed from are extremely strong, and should last for a lifetime, this is not always the case. The materials themselves are very strong and durable, but the underlying gum and bone supporting them can become damaged, just as with natural teeth. So you want to be on the lookout for the signs of periodontal disease that can affect even dental implants.
Periodontal disease, or gum disease, is an extremely common condition among adults. In fact, it affects around 70% of the population. It is so common that patients often overlook it and don’t take it as seriously as they should. For this reason, it is advisable to follow recommendations from your local cosmetic dentist.
The science is clear. Periodontal disease is a serious condition that threatens the loss of teeth when it goes untreated. Periodontal disease sufferers tend to have the following:
- Red or tender gums
- Chronic bad breath
- Loose teeth
- Missing teeth
- General health conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and respiratory disease
Causes of Periodontal Disease
Gum disease is a chronic gum infection due to bacteria present within plaque – a sticky substance adhering to the teeth, spreading to under the gum line. The persistent presence of bacteria causes plaque and tartar, which is a hardened form of plaque.
Over time, the bacteria found in plaque releases toxins that are damaging to gum tissue. This eventually leads to pockets found around the gums that encourage rapid plaque growth. This creates a negative feedback loop that speeds up and intensifies this damaging process.
In its early form, periodontal disease is known as gingivitis. If gingivitis is not dealt with, it can develop into an irreversible type of gum disease called periodontitis. Periodontitis results in the destruction of gum and bone tissue, leading to teeth loosening and falling out. Dental implants are no exception. They can be affected by periodontal disease and loosen or fall out as well.
Preventing Periodontal Disease
There are two main ways that you can prevent periodontal disease from affecting your new dental implant: 1) Brush and floss regularly. 2) Maintain your routine dental checkups and dental cleanings.
Be sure to brush your teeth at least twice daily and floss once a day. If away from home, you can still rinse your mouth out with water following a meal or snack to remove as much food debris as possible. When you return home, resume your normal oral hygiene routine.
Schedule Your Dental Exam and Cleaning
Dental exams and cleanings should be a priority. But if you want to keep your new dental implant, you need to keep up with these essential dental visits.
Learn More
Contact our local cosmetic dentist to learn how to protect your dental implants from periodontal disease. New patients are welcome!
