According to the National Dental Epidemiology Programme for England, 73% of people have one or more missing back teeth, and 7.6% have one or more missing front teeth. But unlike centuries ago, when people simply had to live with gaps in their smile, there are many ways to fix missing teeth. One common solution is Dental Implants.
Dental implants are artificial roots surgically inserted into the lower jaw to support crowns, bridges, or dentures. They provide a long-term fix that feels, looks, and works like real teeth. However, how well you care for them will determine their success and lifespan.
At Pinner Green Dental, we educate patients on the harm that even the most minor mistakes can have on their implants. In this article, we’ll explain how to prevent the usual dental implant care mistakes and what to do instead to maintain your implants’ excellent condition for many years.
Mistake #1: Thinking You Don’t Need to Clean Your Implants
Most people believe that once they get dental implants, it’s bye-bye to cavities, but the gums and bone around your dental implants can still get infected. If you don’t continue with daily oral care (brushing and flossing), it can lead to peri-implantitis (a gum infection similar to gum disease).
Here’s what you should do to keep your implants clean and healthy:
At Pinner Green Dental, we give dental implant patients personalized oral hygiene tips to make daily care easier and more effective.
Mistake #2: Not Going for Regular Checkups
Once implants feel stable, some patients think they no longer need to visit the dentist regularly. But routine check-ups help. Your dentist can spot minor problems before they turn into serious issues. At each checkup, your dentist will carry out the following procedure:
Whether it’s months or years after surgery, our team at Pinner Green Dental always encourages our implant patients to come in for regular reviews.
Mistake #3: Chewing Hard Foods Too Soon
Your implants need time to integrate with the jawbone. Eating crunchy or chewy foods too early can put pressure on the healing area and affect the implant’s stability.
Give your implants time to heal properly, and in the meantime, avoid:
Instead, stick to soft foods like pasta, mashed potatoes and vegetables, and soup during the early healing stages.
Mistake #4: Using the Wrong Tools to Clean Around Implants
Metal picks, hard brushes, or abrasive toothpaste can damage the implant surface and irritate the gums. Even some whitening products can be too harsh. Use options like:
If you’re not sure what to use, our dental hygiene team at Pinner Green Dental can recommend the right tools during your visit.
Mistake #5: Ignoring Early Warning Signs
Pain, swelling, or bleeding around your implant isn’t normal and should never be ignored. These can be signs of an infection or other issues that need prompt attention. If you’re bleeding while brushing, notice swollen or red gums or the implants feel loose, call your dentist to schedule an appointment as soon as possible.
Mistake #6: Smoking After Surgery
Smoking can interfere with the healing process by reducing blood flow to the gums. It also increases the risk of infection and implant failure.
If you’re a smoker, try to stop before your implant surgery and during the healing period. Quitting long-term will also help protect your oral and overall health.
The most successful implant cases are backed by professional support. That’s why choosing the right dental team matters. At Pinner Green Dental, we don’t just place implants, we support you every step of the way with:
Whether you’ve just had surgery or got your implants years ago, we’re here to help you protect your smile.
Caring for your dental implants doesn’t have to be complicated, but avoiding the most common mistakes can make all the difference. You can enjoy long-lasting results and a confident smile with the right habits and regular check-ups.
If you’re looking for expert care and support for your dental implants in Pinner, trust the team at Pinner Green Dental. We’re proud to be a local leader in implant care, and we’re here to help you keep your smile strong. Ready to book a check-up or need implant advice? Get in touch with Pinner Green Dental today! Your long-term smile starts here.
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