Did you know that with the right care, dental implants could be a lifelong solution for missing teeth? Every year, hundreds of thousands of people choose dental implants for their durability and natural appearance. About 3 million Americans currently enjoy the benefits, with this number increasing annually.
Dental implants integrate with your bone and provide stable support for new teeth. This gives you a complete smile, and your replacement teeth feel and function just like your own. Let’s learn how to care for them properly to make the most of their potential longevity.
Key Takeaways
- Cleaning under dental implants is simple with an interdental brush, a water flosser and mouthwash.
- To maintain the area around and under your implants, employ a combination of effective brushing, flossing, and specialized tools like interdental brushes.
- Regular check-ups and professional cleanings at your dental clinic help in early detection and management of potential issues with implants.
- Dental implants require consistent cleaning to prevent gum infections and avoid implant failure.
Why Dental Implant Cleaning Matters
Keeping your dental implants clean is essential for their longevity. Just like your natural teeth, implants can gather plaque and bacteria, especially under the implant itself. If not cleaned regularly, this buildup can lead to peri-implantitis, an infection that can damage the gums and bones around the implant.
This kind of infection threatens the health of your implants so taking the time to clean your implants properly helps avoid these risks, ensuring your mouth stays healthy and your implants last as long as possible.
Should You Clean Under Dental Implants?
Yes, keeping the area under the dental implant free of plaque is essential to prevent infections that can lead to swelling, pain, or even the loss of the implant. After your dental surgery, once the gums heal—typically about two weeks—regular cleaning under your implants should become a part of your daily oral hygiene routine. This simple step can save you from complications and keep your smile healthy.
How to Clean Under Dental Implants: A Step-by-Step Guide
Keeping your dental implants clean doesn’t need to be complicated. Here’s how you can ensure they remain in top shape:
Step 1: Brushing Around the Implant Area
Start with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Carefully brush around the implant and the surrounding gum line. Be gentle to prevent irritation to your gums or damage to the implant surface. This will help remove any plaque without harming the sensitive areas.
Tip: Using an Interdental Brush
An interdental brush is excellent for reaching difficult areas under the implant. Select a size that fits snugly but comfortably—don’t force it. Use it to gently clean around the implant and along the gums to remove trapped food particles and plaque.
Step 2: Flossing with Implant-Specific Tools
Use a waterpik to help clean those hard-to-reach areas. These tools can clean around the implants and between natural teeth, helping to prevent gum disease and implant damage.
Step 3: Rinsing with Antiseptic Mouthwash
Finish your cleaning routine with an antiseptic mouthwash. This step helps kill any remaining bacteria and lowers the risk of infection. Swish the mouthwash around your mouth thoroughly to cover all areas, especially around the implants.
Step 4: Regular Professional Checkups
While home care is crucial, professional checkups are equally important. Visit your dental specialist regularly for professional cleanings and check ups. Your dentist can spot any early signs of possible issues and provide treatments to maintain the health of your implants and gums.
What to Avoid When Cleaning Under Implants
Avoid these common mistakes to keep your implants safe and your mouth healthy:
- When brushing or using interdental brushes, gentle strokes are key. Applying too much pressure can irritate or damage your gums and the implant.
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush. Hard bristles can scratch the surface of your implants and harm the surrounding gum tissue.
- Make sure you clean around all sides of the implant. Missing spots can leave bacteria behind, leading to infection.
Keep Your Smile Healthy With Us at Hanna Dental Implant Center
Proper cleaning is key to a healthy smile. At Hanna Dental Implant Center, we equip you with the knowledge and tools for effective implant care. Use gentle brushing techniques and appropriate cleaning tools, and stay aware of any signs of discomfort or infection.
Remember, early detection and professional care can prevent serious issues. Schedule your next check-up with us to ensure your dental implants last a lifetime.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you clean under permanent dental implants?
Cleaning under permanent dental implants involves using an interdental brush and non-abrasive toothpaste to gently brush around the implant and in those hard-to-reach areas.
Does food get trapped under dental implants?
While uncommon, it may be possible for food to get trapped under dental implants, especially if they aren’t fitted properly. At Hanna Dental Implant Center, every care is taken to ensure your implants are fitted correctly and with precision. But remember, regular cleaning is essential to remove food particles and prevent infection.
How should dental implants be cleaned?
Dental implants should be cleaned with a soft-bristled toothbrush, an interdental brush, fluoride toothpaste, and a waterpik. Using an antimicrobial mouthwash can also help reduce bacteria around the implants.
What dissolves plaque on dental implants?
Plaque on dental implants can be managed with regular brushing and the use of antimicrobial mouth rinses. It’s important to use low-abrasive toothpaste to avoid scratching the surface of the implants while effectively removing plaque.
