5 Bad Habits You Should Avoid If You Have Dental Implants

One of the main reasons why dental implants are becoming increasingly popular is that they can potentially last for several decades, if not a lifetime. However, they can only last this long if you take proper care of them. Brushing and flossing daily, and seeing your dentist for routine checkups, can keep your new teeth in great condition. But there are also certain things you need to avoid doing in order to preserve your dental implants. Here are five of them.  

Biting Your Nails

Not only can nail-biting chip your implant restoration, but you could also damage your gums. Additionally, this habit places unnecessary stress on your jaw. One way to reduce the urge to bite your nails is to try stress-management techniques like meditation. You could also apply a clear, bitter-tasting nail polish.

Grinding and Clenching

Chronic teeth grinding and jaw clenching (mostly while sleeping) are symptoms of a condition called bruxism. Left untreated, your implants, as well as your natural teeth, may become worn-down. You might eventually have trouble opening your mouth wide or chewing without pain. While relaxation exercises can help, so can asking your dentist about getting a custom-made nightguard to cushion your teeth and implants against damage.

Brushing Too Hard

Applying too much pressure when you brush could actually damage your restoration. It can also cause your gums to recede, exposing your implants to potentially dangerous bacteria. Think of brushing your teeth as more like painting an eggshell rather than scrubbing a dirty dish.  

Chewing Ice

Ice and tooth enamel (and most dental implant restorations) are crystals. When two crystals push against each other, one of them can end up breaking. Sometimes this is the ice, and sometimes it’s the tooth. To eliminate the temptation to chew ice, order your drink without ice or sip through a straw instead.

Using Your Teeth as Tools

Teeth (and dental implant restorations) are meant for just one purpose: chewing. Using them for other tasks, such as opening bottles or holding items, can put you at risk for broken teeth as well as injuries in your jaw or soft tissues. These can be painful and expensive to treat. While it may seem easier to use your teeth for these jobs, reach for the proper tool instead. Your mouth and your wallet will thank you.

By avoiding these habits and keeping up with your oral hygiene, you can make sure your dental implants bring you a lifetime of healthy, beautiful smiles!

About the Author

After graduating from the University of Louisville School of Dentistry, Dr. Aaron Springhetti underwent extensive training in oral surgery. For this reason, he is qualified to place and restore dental implants himself in his Carmel, IN office. He is also currently pursuing accreditation with the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, so you can trust that your restoration will look amazingly natural. To learn more about how to make your dental implants last, contact Springhetti Dentistry at (317) 875-7645.