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Dental Implant Maintenance

How do you take care of dental implants? Are they really that much different than caring for other types of restorations?

Dental Implants are a remarkable solution for replacing missing teeth. They offer both aesthetics and functionality. However, to keep your implants in top condition and ensure that your smile stays healthy, it’s important to understand and practice proper implant maintenance.

In short, your new implants need to be cared for the very same way you would your natural smile. Not only do implants resemble anatomical teeth; they’re maintained in an identical manner.

Flossing Your Implant

Like your other teeth, implants must be flossed daily. Since a toothbrush can’t reach between teeth or just below your gums, flossing is crucial.

Wrap the floss around your implant, so that it’s shaped like a “C” against the side. Gently rub the floss up and down between your teeth and under the gums, lifting it up over your gum tissue before moving to the next tooth or implant.

If you have implants that support a multi-tooth restoration, be sure to clean underneath with a threader or water flosser.

If you would like a demonstration on how to clean your implants, please let one of our friend team members know!

Brushing Around Implants

Use a soft-bristled manual or electric toothbrush that’s gentle on your gums. Apply light pressure along your gumlines, cleaning where the crown meets your gum tissue. Don’t push too hard, as aggressive brushing can cause your gums to recede. Make short strokes, cleaning 1-2 teeth at a time.

For best results, choose a non-abrasive toothpaste that won’t scratch your porcelain restorations.

Brush for at least two minutes, twice per day. Follow up with a mouthwash if you prefer.

Choose the Right Tools

Investing in quality oral hygiene tools is worth it. An interdental brush and a water flosser can be really helpful for cleaning around the implant and in hard-to-reach areas. So, consider these tools as they’ll help make maintenance much easier.

Avoid Harmful Habits

Dental implants can be affected by harmful habits, just like natural teeth. Avoid chewing on hard objects, or using your teeth to open packages/bottles as this can damage the crown or implant. Also, try to quit smoking as it can impair the healing process and increase the risk of implant failure.

Watch Your Diet

Maintaining a healthy diet is crucial for both your overall health and your implant’s well-being. Nutrient-rich foods support the healing and longevity of your dental implants. Limit sugary snacks and acidic beverages, as they can contribute to dental issues.

Ongoing Maintenance

No matter how many implants you have, you’ll want to schedule a regular check-up and clean at least every six months. Your implants need to be monitored and cleaned with special instruments to prevent microscopic scratches that might harbour bacteria. During your visit, we’ll perform a routine exam and any necessary X-rays, and gently polish surface stains away.

Although implants last for decades, the restorations on top can potentially wear out over time and need to be updated.

Call Purity Dental Today

Plan your next trip to our Mulgrave dental office to learn more about how implants can enhance your oral health!