Springfield residents who choose dental implants to replace missing teeth, or teeth that need to be extracted, often choose Dr. Cross because of his reputation with his commitment to precision and his microsurgical approach. A periodontist who is also the only one in the Midwest to offer microsurgery, Dr. Cross has experience with placing dental implants and minimizing recovery time for his patients.
However, once your dental implants are placed, it’s your job to ensure that you are properly taking care of them so that you don’t inadvertently damage them. Here are some tips to make sure that you don’t damage your dental implants:
- Practice Proper Oral Hygiene
Just because dental implants are fake teeth, doesn’t mean that Springfield residents get a pass on taking proper care of them. While it’s true that with dental implants you can eat and chew anything, you have to practice proper oral hygiene, too. That means once you are cleared by Dr. Cross post-surgery, you should brush your dental implants twice a day, floss them once a day, as well as use an antibacterial mouthwash once a day.
- Refrain from Using Tobacco Products
In order for dental implants to work, they must properly fuse with your jawbone tissue and form a tight bond. If they don’t, they can fail, and and or have complications. While implant failure is rare, one of the most common reasons it happens is because of tobacco usage. If you have dental implants, you shouldn’t smoke, vape or use smokeless tobacco, because these products have a direct and negative effect on oral health.
- Keep Certain Diseases, Such as Diabetes, Under Control
Certain medical conditions, such as uncontrolled diabetes, can cause dental implants to fail. That doesn’t mean just because you have diabetes, a Springfield resident isn’t a candidate for these tooth replacement systems, though. As long as you work with your doctor who helps you manage your diabetes to keep your condition under control, you will likely be fine. However, if your case of diabetes is uncontrolled, make sure to tell Dr. Cross during your dental implants consultation appointment because he may suggest you get your diabetes under control before investing the time and money into dental implants.
You Can Trust Dr. Cross’ Advice
As a seasoned periodontist who has performed numerous dental implant surgeries on Springfield patients, you can trust Dr. Cross to give you honest, good dental advice on whether or not you are a good candidate for these teeth replacement systems. Make sure you disclose your full medical history and are clear with him about any habits you have, such as tobacco usage, to ensure that he can make an appropriate assessment as to whether or not dental implants are right for you.
Schedule a Consultation Today
Whether you’re a Springfield resident who is already missing teeth or knows you need teeth extracted, dental implants are the known as best teeth replacement system available on the dental market today. To find out if you’re a good candidate for this procedure, call our office today to schedule an initial consultation with Dr. Cross. We can be reached at (217) 793-0196.
