How to Prevent an Infection in Your Dental Implants

How to Prevent an Infection in Your Dental Implants from Randal S. Elloway DDS, Inc in Red Bluff, CAFor individuals who need to restore or replace damaged or missing teeth, dental implants are lasting, high-quality restoration options. The process can be lengthy from start to finish, but this dental appliance gives patients results worth waiting for. However, without the right aftercare, an infection can form and cause extreme discomfort to a patient. Proper dental hygiene and prevention efforts can reduce the likelihood of infection setting in.

Who needs dental implants?

For adults who have experienced tooth loss as a result of mouth trauma, infection, decay, or another reason, implants are alternatives to bridges and dentures. Adolescents who have gone through the phase of facial development, generally past the age 16 for girls and 18 for boys, may also be good candidates. These appliances are designed to last for many decades, protect healthy teeth and facial bones, and provide a permanent tooth replacement option.

How can infections be prevented?

As with any treatment or procedure, following the instructions of the care provider is crucial for avoiding complications. With implants, these four tips can reduce the chance of developing an infection as the wound in the mouth heals, second to the dental professional's advice.

1. Rinse regularly

The mouth is a gathering place for bacteria, and removing plaque is one of the reasons teeth brushing is so important. During the healing after the implant procedure, there is a greater concern that bacteria can form inside the wound and cause infection. Thoroughly rinsing the mouth out helps keep the wound and mouth free from harmful germs. Saltwater or mouthwash are both effective in keeping the area clean.

2. Keep up with dental hygiene

Even without implants, it is recommended that good oral hygiene include brushing and flossing at least twice a day. In the days immediately following the procedure, brushing must be gentle near the area around the wound. However, do not avoid brushing, as the surrounding teeth could harbor bacteria or particles that can cause infection. Flossing is also important, as this process removes particles trapped between the teeth.

3. Maintain dental checkups

The provider who placed the dental implants will give a schedule of when to visit the office for a checkup. The wound will be evaluated to ensure that bacteria are not forming, and in addition to preventative measures, a patient may be prescribed a medication to address signs of infection.

4. Avoid damaging foods

As far as dental health is considered, food and drinks that are high in sugar should be avoided. Sugary substances increase the amount of bacteria that gets trapped in hard-to-reach places, increasing the threat of infection. Rinsing directly after consuming foods high in sugar can help reduce the risk.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp:
Dental Implants in Red Bluff, CA

Conclusion

Dental implants are a reliable way to restore uniformity, function, and beauty to a mouth with lost teeth, but an infection can make the healing process more difficult. It is much easier to adopt healthy oral hygiene habits to prevent the risk of infection, rather than trying to deal with the pain and process of clearing one up.

Request an appointment or call Randal S. Elloway DDS, Inc at 530-527-6777 for an appointment in our Red Bluff office.

Related Posts

Dental Implant Restoration: Prosthetic Root And Crown

Dental implants are the gold standard in teeth replacement. These restorations are durable and biocompatible. Most people prefer durable and stable dental prosthetics to removable dentures. Implants owe their security to the prosthetic root and dental crown. If you want to know how the prosthetic root and crown help dental implants become stable and strong,…

What Does The Process For Dental Implants Involve?

If you are missing one or more teeth, you are probably considering getting them replaced. Dental implants have become a popular option for teeth replacement. Although there are many benefits of this option, it is not necessarily the right choice for everyone. Along with meeting the requirements of what it takes to be a good…

Bridges Vs. Dental Implants: Which Is Better

When someone is missing teeth, a couple of replacement options include bridges and dental implants. These are common ways to fill in the gaps, but there are differences between the two. Each has its advantages and disadvantages, and it is important to understand them before making a decision.A bridge is anchored by the teeth on…

Related Posts

How A Root Canal Treatment Can Help With An Abscessed Tooth

How A Root Canal Treatment Can Help With An Abscessed Tooth

Root canal treatment is often the best (or only) way to deal with an abscessed tooth that results from a tooth infection. This review discusses the role root canal treatment plays in treating an abscessed tooth and what you can expect throughout the diagnostic and treatment processes.An abscessed tooth can affect one’s ability to function…

Three Reasons A Dentist Would Recommend A Root Canal Treatment

Three Reasons A Dentist Would Recommend A Root Canal Treatment

Root canal treatment is used to address infection or inflammation of the nerves and blood vessels in a tooth’s pulp chamber. The contents of the pulp chamber can become inflamed or infected for various reasons like trauma to a tooth, an untreated crack, or severe deep decay. Root canal treatment often allows patients to save…