So, you’ve got dental implants—or maybe you’re considering them—and you’re wondering, “How often do I need to see the dentist now?” It’s a great question, and the answer might surprise you. Even though implants aren’t real teeth and don’t get cavities, regular dental visits are still super important if you want your implants to last for the long haul.

At Least Twice a Year… Just Like Natural Teeth

For most people with dental implants, visiting the dentist every six months is the standard recommendation. These twice-a-year appointments are your chance to get a professional cleaning and a checkup to make sure everything is healthy—not just your implant, but your gums, surrounding teeth, and overall oral health.

Even though the implant crown won’t decay like a natural tooth, the soft tissue and bone around it still need regular attention. Think of the implant like a house—it may be strong, but if the foundation starts crumbling, you’ve got a problem. Regular visits enable Dr. Mike to monitor that foundation and catch any small issues before they become big ones.

Sometimes More Often Than Twice a Year

Now, depending on your situation, your dentist may recommend coming in more often—say, every 3–4 months. Why? Here are a few reasons:

• You have a history of gum disease. If you’ve dealt with periodontal issues before, your gums may need extra TLC.
• You’ve had multiple implants or a full-mouth restoration. The more implants you have, the more complex the maintenance.
• You smoke or have other risk factors. Smoking, diabetes, and certain medications can affect how your body heals and maintains your implants.
• You’re not the best at flossing. (No judgment!) If your home care routine could use a little help, more frequent cleanings can pick up the slack.

Dr. Mike can tailor a visit schedule that makes sense for you, so don’t be surprised if he recommends more frequent check-ins—it’s just part of keeping you healthy!

What Happens During These Appointments?

During your visits, your Cleveland Implant team will:

• Examine the implant(s) for any signs of wear or loosening.
• Check your gums for inflammation or infection (especially peri-implantitis).
• Take X-rays periodically to assess bone levels around the implant.
• Professionally clean around the implant using tools designed not to scratch it.

Dr. Mike will also answer any questions you have, and will ensure your implants continue to look and feel just like a natural tooth.

Keeping Your Smile Beautiful

Dental implants are built to last, but they still need regular care. Think of Dr. Mike as your implant’s personal trainer—keeping everything in shape and catching problems before they get serious.

If your have implants (or are thinking about getting them), make sure you stay on top of your dental visits. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Mike at the Cleveland Implant Institute to get expert dental care and a personalized plan to keep your smile healthy and strong.

Reach out to Cleveland Implant Institute to schedule an appointment, today!