8 Ways to Care for Your Stem Cell Dental Implants and Natural Teeth
6 minute read
Stem cell research once seemed like something out of a science fiction movie, but it’s now taking over the scientific world. Scientists continue to find ways to use stem cells to benefit the health and lives of people each day.
Stem cells can now be used to replace lost teeth. While most people opt for dentures when they lose teeth, dentures can come with challenges, which leaves the door open for new stem cell dental implants instead.
Stem Cell Science for Lost Teeth
Losing teeth can be a nuisance. Not only can it be an embarrassment, but it can be uncomfortable and cause problems with eating.
Dentures were designed long ago to help replace lost teeth, but these too can have issues. Many people have difficulty adjusting to dentures, and they come with their own risk for oral discomfort and infections. Science, thankfully, has found a way to allow new teeth to grow in place of the lost ones.
Similarly to how your baby teeth are replaced by your adult teeth, new stem cell research allows teeth to grow in the place where they have fallen out. By using growth-factor-infused scaffolding in the area of the missing tooth, your body’s stem cells are stimulated to migrate to the area. This results in the regeneration of a new tooth.
One of the most significant benefits of this method over traditional implants is that the person recovers much more quickly. The biggest drawback is public opinion.
Despite the advantages offered by this new stem cell science, many people are opposed ethically to the use of stem cells. What’s important to understand is that the stem cells come from your own body, and there is no manipulation.
Giving Your Teeth the Best
Whether you have dentures or implants, it’s important to practice good oral hygiene. Your mouth is exposed to numerous toxins through eating and breathing, so bacteria can collect in your mouth.
Too much bacteria can lead to an assortment of dental diseases, and if untreated, you will definitely end up needing implants. Following the tips below will help you take care of your natural teeth, and help you take care of any implants you may need.
1. Brush Properly
This means brushing at least twice a day, three times is highly recommended. Brushing before bed is essential to remove any plaque and bacteria that may have accumulated during the day.
You also need to take your time (brushing should last at least two minutes) and be sure to go in gentle, circular motions as you brush. Do not brush too hard as this can damage your gum line.
2. Don’t Forget Your Tongue
Your tongue is a favorite hangout spot for bacteria. You can tell they are getting cozy if you notice a white coating on the surface of your tongue.
This can also be caused by nasal congestion and post-nasal drip. It’s important to brush your tongue to remove bacteria, plaque, and bad odors.
3. Flossing Is Essential
Many think they have great brushing habits, yet they forget about flossing. Even the best brushing technique will not get rid of all the food or particles in your teeth.
Flossing helps to remove anything stuck in between your teeth and gums. If left there, these particles can cause bacterial overgrowth as well as decay. It also increases inflammation in the mouth cavity, which can lead to additional oral health issues or diseases.
4. Use Mouthwash
Mouthwash is useful for removing everything that flossing and brushing missed. It also helps to kill bacteria that cause bad breath.
In many cases, mouthwash can work as a substitute if you’re unable to brush, such as being at work. Mouthwash also helps to reduce the amount of acid in your mouth, which can cause decay.
Caring for Dental Implants
When you have dental implants, be them traditional or newly developed stem cell implants, there are particular tips you need to know to care for your implants correctly. For your implants to last, and to promote optimal healing after placement, it’s essential to take good care of them.
5. Signs of Infection
Be sure to regularly check the implant area for signs of infection and make sure the gums are pink and firm.
6. Use the Right Toothbrush
While most toothbrushes work well for implants, it’s advised to get a higher-quality brand and one with softer bristles. You can use the manual as well as electric brushes, so long as you brush at least twice daily, and do not brush hard.
7. Flossing Is Still Essential
Flossing is just as important with implants as it is with your regular teeth. You need to use un-waxed tape or implant-specific floss in order to protect the special tissue around the implant.
Floss threaders are also available. These are specifically designed to help floss with dental implants.
8. Antimicrobial Mouthwash
Because the implant will be foreign to your mouth, inflammation can be common during healing. Any excess inflammation can attract bacteria to the mouth, which can cause infection.
Antimicrobial rinses are best to prevent this and allow time for the implant to heal. It’s also helpful when it comes to cleaning hard to reach areas of the mouth.
You can speak with your dentist about any of these tips to make sure you get the best treatment and healing routine in place for your implants.
The Bottom Line
Because of the ethical debates over the use of stem cells, the mere mention of the word can upset many people. When it comes to stem cell dental implants, the stem cells are natural and already in your body, so there is no need for ethical concern.
What this means is that there is a more natural option for dentures, and healing time is much quicker than traditional implants. Stem cells have the answer to missing teeth, and the proof will be in your smile.
