Dental Implant Maintenance in Studio City & Los Angeles, CA

Nurturing Your Dental Implants: A Guide to Long-Lasting Beauty

Dental implants are a remarkable solution for replacing missing teeth. They provide a strong foundation for dental restorations such as crowns, bridges, or dentures. However, like natural teeth, dental implants require proper care to maintain health and longevity.

Dr. Lavi, a renowned dentist in Studio City and Los Angeles, CA, offers advice on caring for your dental implants. Call our Los Angeles office at (213) 623-2212 or our Studio City office at (818) 980-8472. We welcome patients from the surrounding areas of Sherman Oaks, Beverly Hills, and Encino, CA.

Essential Tips for Dental Implant Care

Dr. Lavi, a renowned dentist in Studio City and Los Angeles, CA, offers expert advice on caring for your dental implants:

• Oral Hygiene: 
  • Brushing: Brush your teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Pay special attention to the areas around your implants.
  • Flossing: Floss daily to remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth and implants. Use dental floss threaders to reach tight spaces.
  • Mouthwash: Rinse your mouth with an antiseptic mouthwash to kill bacteria and freshen your breath.
• Regular Dental Check-ups: 
  • Schedule regular dental check-ups and cleanings with Dr. Lavi. They will examine your implants, gums, and overall oral health.
  • Early detection and treatment of any issues can help prevent complications and ensure the longevity of your implants.
• Avoid Bad Habits: 
  • Refrain from harmful habits like smoking and excessive alcohol consumption. These habits can negatively impact the health of your gums and implants.
  • Avoid biting down on hard objects, such as ice or hard candy, as this can damage your dental restorations.
• Diet and Nutrition: 
  • A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can promote overall oral health.
  • Calcium and vitamin D are essential for strong bones and healthy gums.

The Importance of Professional Cleaning

While dental implants are a durable and long-lasting solution for missing teeth, they still require regular professional cleanings to maintain optimal oral health. Professional cleanings are essential for removing plaque and tartar buildup, which can lead to gum disease and implant failure.  

• Plaque and Tartar Removal: Dental hygienists are trained to remove plaque and tartar buildup from around your dental implants. These substances can irritate the gum tissue and lead to inflammation.  
• Gum Disease Prevention: Regular cleanings help prevent gum disease, which can affect the health of your implants and surrounding tissues.  
• Early Detection of Issues: During your cleaning, your dentist can identify any potential problems, such as bone loss or infection, and address them promptly.  
• Long-Term Implant Health: Consistent professional cleanings contribute to the long-term health and stability of your dental implants.

Problems That Can Occur Without Dental Implant Maintenance

Implant maintenance problems can occur despite regular care and maintenance. Here are some common problems and how to address them:

• Peri-implantitis: This is a type of gum disease that affects the tissue around the implant, leading to inflammation and bone loss. Symptoms include bleeding, swelling, and redness around the implant. To treat peri-implantitis, your dentist may recommend antibiotics, deep cleaning procedures, or even surgery in severe cases.
• Loose implant: If you feel like your implant is loose or wobbly, it may be due to a loose abutment screw or implant failure. Contact our dentist immediately for an evaluation and treatment options.
• Broken restoration: The crown, bridge, or denture that is attached to the implant may become loose, crack, or break over time. This can be due to normal wear and tear or physical trauma. Depending on the extent of the damage, your dentist may recommend a repair or replacement.
• Gum recession: Gum recession can occur around the implant, exposing the implant to bacteria and leading to implant failure. Our dentist may recommend gum grafting surgery to address the recession and prevent further damage.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I visit the dentist after getting dental implants?

It’s recommended to visit your dentist every six months for regular check-ups and professional cleanings. This helps maintain the health of your implants and surrounding tissues.

Can I continue to use my regular toothbrush and toothpaste on my dental implants? 

While you can use a regular toothbrush and toothpaste, it’s often recommended to use a soft-bristled toothbrush designed for sensitive gums and a non-abrasive toothpaste. Your dentist can provide specific recommendations based on your individual needs.

Does food get trapped under a dental implant? 

Unlike traditional dentures, dental implants are securely anchored to your jawbone. This prevents food particles from getting trapped underneath, making them a more comfortable and natural-feeling solution for tooth replacement.

Maintain a Healthy, Beautiful Smile with Dr. Lavi

To ensure the longevity and success of your dental implants, schedule regular check-ups and cleanings with Dr. Lavi. Call our Los Angeles office at (213) 623-2212 or our Studio City office at (818) 980-8472. We welcome patients from the surrounding areas of Sherman Oaks, Beverly Hills, and Encino.

Learn the Best Dental Implant Care Practices with Dr. Clark

Don’t let tooth loss hold you back from living your best life. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Clark at Monarch Dental Care in Prairie Village, KS, to discuss your dental implant options. We proudly serve patients from surrounding areas like Overland Park, Leawood, and Mission Hills. Call us today at (913) 362-4488 to schedule your appointment and start your journey to a beautiful, healthy smile.