The thing that makes dental implants so unique is the fact that they replace the roots of the missing teeth – not just the chewing surfaces. This allows for all sorts of additional benefits that you can’t get from other tooth replacement options, like having a success rate of over 95%! However, to achieve this, it’s important that you take steps to maintain the health of your smile. Here are 6 bad habits that anyone with dental implants should avoid.
Nail Biting
This is a common nervous habit that many of us are guilty of. In addition to introducing harmful bacteria into your body, biting your nails can have negative effects on your dental health. You could end up with a chipped tooth or damaged dental implant. Also, by keeping your jaw in a protruded position, you are placing pressure on it. It is also possible for you to injure your gum tissue. Unfortunately, this habit is very difficult to break. Some methods that patients have found useful are reducing stress, applying a bitter polish, or investing in a manicure.
Grinding & Clenching
This harmful dental habit is one that many people don’t even realize that they have. It can result in chipped and cracked teeth as well as muscle tenderness and joint pain. If you grind your teeth at night, your dentist may supply you with a customized nightguard to wear while you sleep. If you grind or clench during the day, it’s beneficial to use relaxation exercises.
Brushing Too Hard
It’s important to brush your teeth twice a day for optimal oral health. However, it if you are brushing too vigorously, you can cause gum recession and irritation. Remember to use a soft-bristled toothbrush and apply appropriate pressure. Strong implants rely on healthy gum tissue and surrounding teeth.
Chewing Ice
Did you know that ice is a crystal? This is something that it has in common with your tooth enamel. When two crystals are pressed against each other, one of them is going to break. Most of the time, the ice breaks. However, you don’t want to risk your tooth or dental implant breaking. If the temptation is too much, try to drink beverages without ice or use a straw.
Using Your Teeth as Tools
When you use your teeth to open bottles or rip through stubborn packaging, you could end up with a chipped or broken tooth. You could even develop a jaw injury. Remember that your teeth and dental implants are intended to chew your food – not for other functions. Keep scissors, a bottle opener, pliers, and other tools around to help you avoid the need for expensive dental repairs in the future.
Frequent Snacking
A diet that is packed full of sugary and starchy foods increases your risk of developing cavities in the teeth surrounding your dental implants. Remember to eat a few balanced meals throughout the day so you feel full for longer. This way, you can reduce your urge to pick up snacks throughout the day.
To make your implants last as long as possible, you need to avoid the harmful habits listed above. This way, you can enjoy your complete smile for many years down the road!
About the Author
Dr. Kim Turnbow is an experienced dentist who has been working in the field for more than a decade. She earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery from the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio. Today, she is passionate about continuing education, taking between 40 and 50 hours a year. She is a proud Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry and a member of the American Dental Association and Texas Dental Association. To learn more about dental implants or to schedule a consultation at her office in New Braunfels, visit her website or call (830) 626-1111.