Avoiding These Six Habits Will Help Your Dental Implants Last Longer

Whether you have one or multiple dental implants, you probably know that there are some basic things you shouldn’t do, such as biting into a whole apple or eating sticky candy. What you may not be aware of is that there are lesser known habits that can cause damage to dental implants. Below, are six sneaky offenders that may be risking the strength of your dental implants in Green Lake.

Six Habits to Avoid if You have Dental Implants

Although certain habits that many people practice without realizing it are harmful to oral health in general, there are some that pose an even greater risk to implants. Here are six common habits that your dentist in Green Lake recommends you avoid in order to increase the longevity of your dental implants:

Biting Your Nails – This places pressure on your dental implants which can cause breakage and gum injury

Brushing Your Teeth Too Hard –This can cause irritation and recession of the gums exposing an implant’s root.

Grinding or Clenching –Not only is this harmful to the jaw joints over time, but it can also lead to breaking and cracking teeth and implants alike.

Chewing Ice– Implant restorations and ice pushed together do not mix well and can cause breakage.

Frequently Consuming Sugary Foods – Foods and beverages high in sugar put you at a greater risk of developing periodontal disease, which can weaken the gums surrounding the implants and cause them to be less stable.

Utilizing Your Teeth as a Tool –Using your teeth as tools to open or hold things puts you at a higher risk for damage to implant restorations.

How Can You Practically Avoid These Six Habits?

If you identify with one or more of the above habits, fear not! There are ways to avoid them and keep your dental implants in great shape for as long as possible:

• If you’re a nail biter, ask your dentist about a mouthguard. It’s also important to focus on stress reduction. You can also try using a clear, bitter tasting nail polish.
• Make up for excess pressure while brushing by using a soft bristled toothbrush. You can apply the same amount of pressure without the potential damage to your implants.
• Like nail biting, clenching and grinding can be alleviated with a mouthguard and stress relieving activities. Your dentist may recommend a more substantial nighttime bite guard.
• Try disposing of ice as soon as you have finished your beverage. That way, you won’t be tempted to chew it.
• Replace sugary snacks with healthier ones, and eat balanced meals throughout the day so that you’re not feeling the need to snack.
• Before you use your teeth to open a bag or cut through a thread, stop and think of the risk involved. It’s worth taking a little extra time to locate the tool you need!

If cared for properly, dental implants can last up to 15 years before the crown will need to be replaced. Focus on avoiding these 6 habits, and you’ll find the quality of your dental implants to be much better over time.