How To Prevent Infections In Your Dental Implants
Many patients receive dental implants after losing natural teeth and restore beauty, health, and functional teeth. However, some risks can come along with the implant procedures. Post-procedural infections are one of the most common risk factors, but you can prevent infection by knowing what to look for and how to respond.
Signs of Infection
Bacteria can build-up around the base of the implant below the gum line. As time passes, the gum tissue may cause inflammation. Early prevention is the best way to prevent damage to the tissue and bone structure below the gum line. This is similar to gum disease, but it is referred to as peri-implant disease.
Prevention
The best way to prevent problems is being careful with the introduction of bacteria into your mouth immediately after you receive implants. This means not sharing food or drink with others and limiting kissing and other activities that increase the amount of bacteria in your mouth.
After surgery, you will rely on antibiotics and antibacterial mouthwash to keep your mouth clean.
Post-operative Care
Begin taking antibiotics for several days before surgery to reduce the risk of infection. Most implant surgical dentists will issue antibiotics and an antibacterial mouthwash.
Clean the surfaces below and above the gum line daily. This is an essential step to ensure you will not contract a peri-implant disease.
Be sure to follow all post-operative instructions to ensure your mouth will heal properly. Be sure to take the entire prescription. Don't take part of them and stop because your mouth is feeling okay. Your surgeon knows how many antibiotics are needed to prevent bacteria issues.
Know the Risk Factors
You should let the dentist (like Davis R Troup DDS PA) be aware if you are a smoker, have diabetes, or have had previous gum disease issues. Monitor your diabetes and keep it under control.
If you are a smoker, you should quit permanently. Smoking is a leading cause of mouth infections. It can also lead to failure of the implants as well as the loss of the remaining natural teeth.
If you follow these guidelines, you should enjoy a beautiful smile for the rest of your life. Be sure to provide all of your health information to the surgeon so there will not be any complications. You also need to let the doctor know of any medications you are currently taking so the antibiotics will not create side effects.
Your smile is an asset to your future, so take care of it!
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