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Should you lose a tooth, your dentist might recommend a dental implant. This restoration involves a titanium post that’s implanted into your jawbone, acting as an artificial tooth root that will support your new, customized tooth. For most people, a dental implant brings back the function and beauty of their original smile, but for some the restoration is unsuccessful.

A failed dental implant is often preventable, by properly caring for your entire smile. Here are a few tips to encourage the life and beauty of your new tooth:

• Brush your teeth and floss regularly.  Some patients assume that their artificial tooth no longer requires regular cleaning and care. Improper oral hygiene allows plaque and bacteria to flourish, which can eventually cause infection and bone loss. Be sure to brush your teeth (and your dental implants) twice a day and floss regularly.
• Do You Grind Your Teeth?  If so, the force exerted when grinding may stress your new tooth. It could even cause bone loss that would negatively affect the life of your dental implant.  Speak with your dentist about a mouthguard, to protect your smile.
• Don’t Smoke!  Smoking is one of the greatest risk factors for dental implant complications. It slows down your body’s healing process, making it difficult for new bone to develop around the artificial root, putting your dental implant at risk..
• Avoid Hard Foods Just like your natural teeth, dental implants can be damaged when you chew very hard foods such as ice or hard candy. With a little caution, you can confidently enjoy just about any food you like.  

See Your Dentist Regularly – Visiting your dental hygienist twice a year is vital to the health and longevity of your new smile. Call your dentist today and schedule a checkup!

Posted on behalf of:
Spanaway Family Dentistry
20709 Mountain Hwy E #101
Spanaway, WA 98387
(253) 948-0880