How to Clean Dental Implants
Proper care is essential to keeping your implants looking and feeling their best
Our team of periodontists will help you decide if implants are a good option for you.
Day-to-day cleaning of dental implants involve brushing, flossing and rinsing with antibacterial mouthwash like you would with your natural teeth. Routine dental appointments for preventative care are also important.
Because dental implants are made from synthetic materials they are not affected by tooth decay, but can make you more susceptible to gum disease.
Dental implants are anchored into the bone and tissue allowing the possibility for food to get stuck in the areas surrounding the dental implant. Trapped food and bacteria can lead to plaque and gum infections, which is why regular cleanings and checkups are important.
Because you cannot remove dental implants like dentures, it is important to have regular professional cleanings. A dental hygienist can carefully remove and clean anything from the threaded screw-retained implant that may be hard to reach at home. At the dentist’s you’ll experience all the usual cleaning techniques in addition to checks that the implant is secure and well-aligned.
Dental hygienists will use plastic or resin scalers instead of traditional metal tools because artificial teeth are easily scratched.
Dental Implants & Gum Health
If left unchecked/untreated, a gum infection can cause the implant to separate from the surrounding bone and lead to gum loss. In addition to your brushing and antibacterial mouthwash, a water flosser makes it easier to clean above and below the gum line and is more effective than string floss for dental implants. You’ll be able to reach the small spaces between your abutment and the artificial tooth.
Well cared for dental implants have the potential to last for decades. Our dentists and periodontists will work with you to come up with the best plan for maintaining your dental implants and oral health. We’ll provide you with the best tools and advice for cleaning throughout your dental implant procedure.
Patient Information
We encourage new patients to fill out a new patient form online prior to your first appointment. Be sure to select the appropriate location for your new patient forms, as once you complete them, they are sent electronically to the office you’ve chosen.
Insurance
Medical and dental insurance can be confusing. Our staff has experience with your questions and can help you get the most from your insurance.
No insurance? Apply today.