Can Food Get Under Dental Implants? 

The secret to a long-lasting dental implant is proper maintenance. With good oral hygiene habits and recurrent visits to your Nassau Bay dentist, you can enjoy your new dental implant for 15 years or even longer. 
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However, even with the right care, you may experience some issues along the way. This can happen if, for instance, you get food stuck under the dental implants. 
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Here’s what you should do about it:

Food Under Dental Implants: What’s Really Going on? 

It’s very unlikely to get food stuck under dental implants. These artificial teeth are made from three components tightly linked together:
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• Metal post
• Abutment
• Dental crown
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The dental implant is designed to look and function like a natural tooth, so even the dental crown, which is the visible part, is sealed tightly along the gum line.
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If you do feel like food is stuck under the implant, there are two possibilities:
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• Food is stuck to the gum line - Eating certain foods like nuts or popcorn could lead to a piece being trapped along the gum line. Larger pieces can even cause slight bleeding in some cases. These food particles don’t actually get under the dental implant, and can easily be removed with a pick or oral irrigator; 

• Improperly-placed implant - If the implant procedure was faulty, it is technically possible for food to get under the artificial tooth. If you suspect that’s the case, you should see Dr. Liel Allon for an implant consultation. 
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Other Tips to Care for a Dental Implant

Dental implant maintenance isn’t difficult at all. The steps you’ll need to take are the exact same as caring for your natural teeth:
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• Brush your teeth at least twice a day, preferably after every meal
• Floss daily at night, before bed
• Eat fresh fruits and veggies to promote salivation
• Use products with fluoride
• Wear a mouthguard when sleeping if you grind your teeth
• Stop smoking
• Avoid high amounts of sugar
• Get routine professional dental cleanings and check-ups
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These strategies can help you preserve your dental implant for as long as possible. While these artificial teeth are strong, they can be damaged.  
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Developing certain oral health conditions like gum disease is a common reason why dental implants need to be changed, apart from regular wear and tear or potential trauma, such as a car accident.
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But, you can avoid these situations by taking better care of your oral health.

Interested in Dental Implants? We Can Help 

Dental implants are an effective way to restore your smile as well as your oral health. If you want to find out if you’re a good candidate for dental implants, or need a second opinion to resolve an issue with an existing one, Dr. Liel Allon is happy to help.
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Book a dental implant appointment at DentAllon Dentistry online, or call our office at (832) 975-0780 to find out more about our services.