Tips For Reducing Dental Implant Infection Concerns
Posted on: 27 March 2017
If you have spoken to your dentist about the possible placement of dental implants, then you may have learned that the artificial teeth can fail over time. One of the most common reasons for failure is the onset of an infection. There are many ways that you can prevent infections and possible failures. Keep reading to learn how.
Ask For A Special Implant
The standard dental implants are titanium varieties that are highly biocompatible and can withstand a great deal of pressure and stress. In some cases, zirconia implants may be substituted for the regular titanium varieties. When the implant is made, small bits of texture are added to the device in the way of acid or mechanical etching. This helps to create a surface that new bone cells can cling on to. This process allows the implant to become a part of the jaw. The texture can also encourage the fast bonding between the implant and the jaw. The faster the implant can integrate, then less likely that bacteria will gather around the implant root, multiply, and form an infection.
Even faster healing can be completed if your dental professional chooses to secure a polymer-coated implant device in your mouth. This type of implant is a specialty device, so you may need to ask for it. However, infection risks can greatly be reduced by using it.
There are some special implant roots that have small reservoirs or holding areas that hold antibacterial and antimicrobial substances. This can control microorganisms directly around the implant area.
Eat Soft Foods
Your dentist will likely inform you to eat soft foods after your dental implant operation for several reasons. Soft foods do not place pressure on the incision area, and this keeps clots and scabs from being scraped away from the region. Soft foods also keep you from chewing aggressively near and around the implant. Implants can break free from the bone when the root device first starts to attach to the jaw.
Soft foods also reduce infection risks by keeping hard food particles from clinging to the incision area. The bits of food will attract and feed bacteria. The microorganisms can then cause an infection. Infections may be brought on by the formation of plaque as well, so you should try to avoid consuming too many carbohydrates that will create plaque in the region.
Clean Thoroughly
Even if you do eat the right foods and opt for the right implant, bacteria will still be present in the mouth. You should know that an infection is more likely if you have already dealt with a mouth issue like gingivitis or gum disease. This is one reason why your dentist will ask about the diseases and if you have ever had them. The professional will also inspect your mouth for active periodontal disease. If the gums appear swollen, bloody, or red, then you may be asked to go through some treatments before an implant surgery is scheduled. Antimicrobial rinses and antibiotic pills may be prescribed.
Even if you do have a prescription for an antibacterial agent, you will need to clean around the implant area as thoroughly as possible. However, you do not want to disrupt the delicate tissues. Try to gargle with a salt water rinse at least two or three times a day. If the salt burns your mouth, then add a bit of baking soda to the rinse to reduce the sensation.
You also want to use a soft and small toothbrush, like a baby one, to clean around the implant area. When it comes to toothpaste, use a tartar control product. While you do not have to worry about plaque and tartar around the incision area, the paste will reduce these substances throughout the rest of the mouth. Less bacteria will then be present. Finally, use a water pic around the crevices of the incision area and the new implant. This will help to get rid of any stuck food that cannot be easily brushed away.
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