Losing a tooth is a traumatic experience, so when searching for a tooth replacement solution, you may be tempted to rush into a decision. The better course of action by far is to take your time, evaluate the benefits of different tooth replacement treatments, and then choose the solution that fits in with your life. Here we’ll review how to maintain a dental implant,

Dental implants are small titanium rods that are surgically implanted into the jawbone. Once the bone and titanium fuse together, the dental implant is capped with a natural-looking restoration. Dental implants, unlike dentures and dental bridges, are not removable for cleaning and maintenance. Rather, you care for your dental implant as you would care for your regular teeth. Our O’Fallon dental implant dentists recommend that you:

Brush and floss as least twice a day to clean plaque away and help prevent dental infections. It’s important also to see your dentist semi-annually for a professional dental cleaning. At this appointment your dentist will also access the health and stability of your implant.

Don’t chew on harmful substances. Dental implants are designed to be strong enough for you to eat and drink normally. Although you can enjoy all of your favorite foods and drinks, it’s still important to avoid chewing hard candies or ice. Both of these things can wear down your dental implants prematurely—they can even cause your restorations to crack or chip.

By following a few simple guidelines and keeping up with your dental health routine, you can help maintain your smile and dental implants for years to come. Before you choose a tooth replacement solution, take the time to discuss your situation and your options with a professional. Give our O’Fallon dental implant dentists a call for more information or to schedule an appointment—(636) 614-1217.

In our O’Fallon cosmetic dental office, we’ve found that many patients are looking for the same thing—a whiter, brighter smile. As teeth become stained and discolored through years of wear and tear, it’s only natural that many patients want to reclaim the young-looking, white teeth they remember. As we know the first step to achieving this white smile is diligent dental hygiene. Patients should brush and floss at least twice daily and maintain a schedule of regular dental appointments. But what if this isn’t enough?

If dental hygiene alone isn’t keeping your smile as sparkling as you’d like, it may be time to investigate teeth whitening products to rejuvenate dental enamel. What we commonly refer to as teeth whitening products are actually teeth bleaching products, because they use either hydrogen or carbamide peroxide to whiten teeth. These products do more than simply remove surface debris and plaque, they have the ability to whiten teeth beyond their natural, or base shade, of whiteness.

The effectiveness of a teeth bleaching product depends on the formulation of the whitening agent and the way that the product is applied. Over the counter whitening strips and gels utilize less potent bleach formulas. The goods news is that this means that these products can be used at home without dentist supervision. The bad news is that at-home strips and gels take longer to whiten teeth, and ultimately don’t provide the same level of whiteness.

Professional teeth whitening treatments, on the other hand, are administered in a dental office. Most patients see results after only one or two appointments. Professional bleaching is suitable for a wide variety of patients, and may be the only effective treatment for patients with persistent staining or tetracycline-darkened teeth.

Before you begin a whitening regimen, discuss your plans with your dentist. He or she can help you decide what bleaching treatment will work best for you situation. Give our O’Fallon cosmetic dentists a call if you have any questions—(636) 614-1217.