Before your dentist schedules your dental implant procedure, he or she will want to make sure that your oral health is in good shape so that you tolerate your procedure well and so that you have a smooth recovery. If you have periodontal disease or other conditions that affect your teeth and gums, you may be at risk for infection or implant failure. Here are some ways to help improve your oral health before getting your dental implants.
Follow RDA Dietary Guidelines
To help ensure that you are getting enough vitamins and minerals to keep your mouth healthy, follow the RDA, or recommended daily allowances, suggested by your dentist or physician. It is essential that you consume a diet rich in vitamin C, which helps keep your gum tissue healthy so that when your teeth are extracted to make room for your implants, they will heal quickly.
It is also important to eat foods high in vitamin D to help keep your jawbones healthy. Strong jawbones are needed so that when your titanium rods are implanted in your jawbones, they will graft well, which will help stabilize your implants. Other essential nutrients that you should consume to enhance your oral health include B vitamins, calcium, protein, vitamin E, and vitamin A.
Quit Smoking
If possible, quit smoking before your dental implant procedure. Cigarette smoking can cause poor circulation and damage the blood vessels inside your mouth. If you smoke, your dental implant sites may not heal properly and you may also be at a higher risk for infection. Smoking can also cause dry mouth, which can further heighten your risk for an infection after your implant surgery.
If you need help quitting or cutting down, talk to your doctor. He or she may recommend nicotine replacement patches or chewing gum or may prescribe an oral medication to help dampen your urge to smoke. Not only will quitting smoking or cutting down enhance your oral health, but it may also reduce your risk for heart attack, stroke, blood clots, and lung disease.
If you are considering dental implant surgery, consider the above interventions to help improve your oral health. By doing so, your gums and the bones that support your implants will be healthier so that your implant procedure will be successful. By maintaining your oral health and visiting your dentist on a regular basis, your dental implants are likely to last a lifetime.