5 Habits to Avoid When You Have Dental Implants

One of the great things about living in the 21st century is that missing teeth can be a thing of the past! There are multiple different tooth replacement options out there to help people who want to restore their smile. Dental implants are a preferred method for dentists and patients alike because of their many benefits. One of those is the fact that they can last upwards of 25 years or even the rest of your life. However, if they aren't cared for properly, they can become damaged. Dr. Ivan Chan at Glendale Dental Wellness shares some bad habits that you should avoid if you have dental implants.

Nail Biting

This habit can be very difficult to stop, but it's definitely worth taking the time to put a stop to it. It can be harmful to your overall health because you are bringing bacteria and viruses into the body in the process. It can also damage your dental implants. Even though they are strong and durable, implants are not indestructible. Nail biting can cause you to chip or break your teeth, plus it causes you to place pressure on the jaw when it is in a protruded position for a long period of time. You could even tear your gum tissue. In order to discontinue this habit, try taking steps to reduce stress, using bitter nail polish, or investing in a manicure.

Brushing Too Vigorously

In order to keep up your oral health, it is essential that you brush twice and floss once every day, if not after each meal. Not brushing properly is just as bad as not brushing at all. If you are using too much force, you could damage both your protective enamel and gum tissue. In order to maintain strong dental implants, you must have healthy gums. This habit can cause gum recession to occur over time. Always use a soft-bristled toothbrush and apply gentle pressure.

Biting Non-Food Objects

A common nervous habit involves chewing on items that are not meant to be consumed. Whether you are drawn to ice cubes, pens, pencils, or something else, this can put too much pressure on your implants and even damage the bone that secures them.

Using Your Teeth as Tools

It may seem easier, but using your teeth to rip through stubborn packing, pop bottles, or cut through thread can cause damage. Your dental implants do not have a periodontal ligament to cushion them, so they are especially vulnerable to pulling and twisting forces.

Snacking Frequently

If you are consistently snacking on sugary foods or sipping on sweet beverages throughout the day, your teeth will not be thanking you. When you have these food particles in your mouth, bacteria will feed off them and produce a weak acid as a by-product. In the end, your enamel can endure damage, and you are more likely to experience decay.

Implants are great for people who are missing teeth, but proper care is important. By avoiding these bad habits, you are more likely to have success with your smile transformation. Patients from Burbank, Pasadena, Eagle Rock, and throughout the Glendale area trust our team for long-lasting implant results.

Protect Your Dental Implants in Glendale, CA

To learn more about caring for your dental implants or to schedule a consultation, contact Dr. Ivan Chan at Glendale Dental Wellness. Call (818) 243-3838 or request an appointment online today.