At Herman Family Dentistry, our Vincennes, IN, implant dentist, Dr. Eric Herman, understands the significance of a lifelong restoration and the vital role proper care plays in achieving it. As the leading restoration solution, dental implants have the potential to endure for a lifetime when given the attention they deserve.
One of the remarkable advantages of dental implants is they can be maintained much like your natural teeth. However, it’s crucial to bear certain factors in mind while tending to your implants. Your radiant smile deserves the best care, and we are here to guide you every step of the way.
As you embark on your journey towards a healthy and lasting smile with dental implants, it’s essential to prioritize proper care during the recovery phase. After your implant procedure, Dr. Herman will provide you with crucial instructions for the initial recovery days. Adhering to these instructions diligently not only ensures the longevity of your dental implants but also safeguards your overall oral health. Here’s what you need to do:
Once you have successfully recovered from the initial surgery, maintaining the longevity of your dental implants becomes a simple task. Here are some expert tips to help you achieve a lifetime of successful restoration:
Practicing good oral hygiene is paramount to preserving the condition of your implants.
Taking care of your dental implants is similar to caring for natural teeth, but it’s important to use gentle cleaning products. Avoid using whitening toothpaste or toothpaste designed for smokers, as they can have abrasive materials that might scratch your implants or irritate your gums. Instead, opt for nylon floss, which slides easily between your teeth and is gentle on your gums.
After brushing and flossing, finish your oral care routine by rinsing with mouthwash. Choose a brand that doesn’t contain abrasive ingredients, such as those used for whitening. Also, be mindful of mouthwash containing alcohol, as it can dry out your mouth.
Maintaining healthy gums is crucial for the long-term success of your dental implants. Poor oral hygiene can lead to gum disease, which in turn can cause peri-implantitis — an infection of the tissues surrounding the implant. Without proper treatment, peri-implantitis can lead to bone loss or implant failure.
Schedule professional checkups and cleanings with Dr. Herman at least twice a year. These routine appointments are essential for the early detection of any potential issues that may threaten the health of your implants.
Although dental implants rarely require emergency care due to their strong integration with the jawbone, unforeseen circumstances can occur. If you experience a dental implant emergency, follow these steps to ensure your safety:
During your emergency appointment, Dr. Herman will carefully assess the condition of your crown and implant. If the crown is irreparably damaged, he’ll take immediate steps and construct a new one, ensuring the continued success of your dental implant restoration.
During the healing process after getting your dental implant, it’s important to consume easy-to-eat soft foods. Avoiding hard or chewy foods is crucial to prevent any disturbance to the implant site and ensure a smooth recovery. Here are some recommended foods to consider after your surgery:
Remember to stay hydrated and chew your food away from the surgical area until you have fully healed.
For your safety, implant dentists recommend refraining from engaging in strenuous activities for at least three days or longer after your procedure. While light activity is usually permitted after the first 24 hours, it’s crucial to listen to your body.
If you experience fatigue or have trouble concentrating on tasks, it may be a side effect of medication. In such cases, it’s best to postpone activities like driving or other tasks requiring focus until you fully recovered.
It’s normal to experience some mild discomfort or soreness following the dental implant procedure. Your implant dentist will prescribe pain medication or suggest over-the-counter options to manage any pain. Most patients find the discomfort to be manageable and diminish within a few days.
In cases where dental implants become damaged or fail, it may be possible to replace them. However, each situation is unique, and your implant dentist will evaluate the specific circumstances to determine the best course of action for your case.
Here at Herman Family Dentistry, we’re always here to help you on your smile journey and will be there every step of the way. If you have any questions or want to know more about dental implant care, call our Vincennes dental office at (812)-882-1572 to schedule a consultation. We can’t wait to help you achieve your dream smile!
You can also fill out our convenient online contact form, and one of our team members will get back to you shortly. Herman Family Dentistry proudly provides implant dentistry services to patients in the Vincennes area and the surrounding areas like Washington, Bruceville, and Decker, IN.
Dr. Eric Herman
608 South Quail Run Road
Vincennes, IN
USA 47591
New Patients:
812-882-1572
Current Patients:
812-882-1572
Monday: 9AM – 5PM
Tuesday: 9AM – 5PM
Wednesday: 9AM – 5PM
Thursday: 9AM – 5PM
Friday: 9AM – 4PM
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: Closed