Oral Health Link to Whole Body Health: A Blog

How to Care for Your Dental Implants

9 January 2019

Duane Kelly

Dental implants, where a crown or a bridge is anchored to the jaw by surgery, is an effective method of cosmetic dentistry which should last for a lifetime. However, you will need to care for your implanted teeth just as you would with your natural teeth. This guide should help you keep your implant in top condition.

Brushing

Plaque can attack the gums around the implant and cause inflammation, just as with real teeth. This inflammation is called peri-implant mucositis. If the plaque is not removed, the gums can become infected and the implant can become loosened. You will therefore need to clean your teeth as normal. You will need to use a soft-bristled brush, and although there are brushes available specifically for implants, any toothbrush should be suitable. You should simply choose the one that is easiest to use and feels most comfortable.

Flossing

Implants are more prone to particles of food building up around them, so proper flossing is very important. Special flosses are available for implants; otherwise, you should use an unwaxed tape. Dentists also sometimes recommend using a floss threader.

Interdental brushes

You may find that interdental brushes are the best way to clean the back teeth. Implants are fixed to the jaw with a single root, but they may have replaced teeth with several roots, leaving a larger space beneath the tooth for food particles and bacteria to gather. Interdental brushes that can reach slightly beneath the crown should help to keep these teeth clean.

Water flossers

Water flossers, also known as oral irrigators, work by shooting a jet of water between the teeth to dislodge any stubborn particles. They can reach areas that regular flossing cannot and may produce less discomfort. Make sure to use one with a non-metal tip. Unless regular flossing is really too painful, water flossers should be used in addition to other methods.

Stimulators

You can also use a device called a stimulator, which can encourage healthy gum tissue to grow. It works by lying flat against the gums and then massaging them to stimulate new tissue growth. A rubber-tipped stimulator is the best type to use. Talk to your dentist or hygienist if you think this would be a good solution for you.

With a little care and a good oral hygiene regime, you can ensure that your dental implants will stay in good condition for years to come.

Share