Step 6. Caring for your implants

After all the work of replacing missing teeth, good maintenance is the only way to make your implants and new teeth last as long as possible.

Regular checkups

Regular exams and cleanings with your regular dentist help prevent problems with both your implants and your natural teeth. Even with dentures, checkups help catch bone loss around implants and where teeth are missing. Preventing a problem, or catching it early, is always quicker, easier and less expensive than a major repair later.

At home

The most important maintenance happens at your bathroom mirror.

• Brush and clean between your teeth as often as your dentist recommends.
• Eat well, with plenty of fresh fruit, vegetables and nuts.
• Keep your teeth apart during the day unless you are chewing. Clenching or touching teeth together a lot leads to cold sensitivity and more broken teeth and crowns.

With a little practice, good care becomes routine, and it gives your implants the best chance of lasting. If you are finding your implants hard to keep clean, tell your dentist soon.