How To Keep Dental Implants Clean

How To Keep Dental Implants Clean from Chesterfield Dentist in Chester, VADental implants are not susceptible to the decay that afflicts natural teeth, but still require adequate cleaning to remove plaque that can stick to them and infect the surrounding tissue. Periodontal disease can destabilize the jawbone, and consequently the implant.

Cleaning single dental implants

Although a dental hygienist can clean the implant's abutment and the crown, the patient must also perform daily maintenance. Signs of improper home care include:

  • Bleeding
  • Red and swollen gums
  • Pain when chewing
  • Bad breath
  • Bad taste in the mouth

Taking a small amount of extra care when cleaning a single dental implant can shield surrounding teeth from bacteria and increase its longevity.

Brushing

Brushing twice per day is necessary for patients with and without implants. Patients with dental implants must gently brush the crown, using a soft nylon brush to avoid scratching its surface. Oral bacteria can migrate into the jaw through scratches on the crown.

Using mild toothpaste

Unlike natural teeth, implant crowns have an acrylic surface that abrasive substances such as baking soda can wear away. Worn surfaces create access points for bacteria that can infect the jaw and the tissue around the implant. Brushing with a mild toothpaste eliminates this concern.

Water flossing

Water flossers have parts that can direct water flow deep inside the space between the crown and the gums where bacteria accumulate. A pulsating hydraulic force of room temperature water washes away plaque and debris and is gentle enough to apply every day.

Alternative flossing

Soft interdental brushes can achieve the same level of cleaning that water flossing provides. Standard string floss is inadvisable for use near dental implants because it can shred and enter the gum tissue causing infection. Specially designed floss consisting of shred-resistant stiff ends and a pliable middle can safely clean the area where the crown's edge meets the gumline.

Gum stimulating

Patients can gently massage the gums with stimulators to send nutrient-rich blood to the implant region. A gum stimulator is also an excellent cleaning device consisting of a long metal or plastic arm supporting a small triangular-shaped rubber or silicone tip that reaches beyond the gumline near the implant crown to scrape away plaque. It can enter the tight space between the crown and other teeth to loosen trapped debris.

Cleaning implants that support bridges and dentures

Whether a patient has a single implant or multiple implants, the cleaning methods are the same, with some variation. Additional tools in a home care arsenal can benefit patients with implant-supported bridges and dentures.

Interdental brushing

Patients can use small, narrow brushes with soft bristles to clean implant-supported bridges or dentures near the gumline where standard toothbrushes cannot easily reach. Subtle changes in design depend on which part of the mouth is cleaned.

Mouth rinsing

A mouth rinse can penetrate spaces that other home care tools can not reach. Antibacterial rinses can dislodge debris while killing germs that can cause periodontitis.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp:
Dental Implants Clean in Chester, VA

Conclusion

Dental implants can last a lifetime with proper cleaning. Rigorous home care is essential but does not take the place of in-office deep cleaning.

Request an appointment or call Chesterfield Dentist at 804-412-0867 for an appointment in our Chester office.

Recent Posts

Discover The Lifelong Benefits Of A Dental Implant For Your Oral Health

A dental implant is the gold standard of dental restorations. It provides stability and natural-looking results. Understanding the benefits of implants can motivate you to see your general dentist about it. Here are the different oral health advantages of a dental implant.The titanium rod acts as the dental root. It merges with the jawbone and…

Securely Replace Missing Teeth With Dental Implants

The introduction of dental implants has provided a solution to tooth replacement that goes beyond mere function to address the core of personal well-being. Loss of teeth has an impact on a lot more than just dental health — it impacts chewing, talking ability, and confidence. This is where dental implants come into play as…

Dental Implants Are A Solution For Missing Teeth

You may have heard about dental implants as a solution for a missing tooth, but did you know they can replace multiple missing teeth as well? This guide provides you with all of the information you should know about dental implants before you decide whether or not they are appropriate for your teeth replacement needs.Dental…

Recent Posts

What Is Endodontics? A Guide To Saving Teeth From The Inside Out

What Is Endodontics? A Guide To Saving Teeth From The Inside Out

Endodontics is a branch of dentistry dedicated to saving teeth by treating problems inside the tooth. It focuses on the health of the tooth's pulp and roots, essential to your smile's overall strength and function. Endodontics could be the key to relieving discomfort and preserving your natural teeth if you are experiencing tooth pain or…

Dental Bridge Vs  Dental Crowns: What Is The Difference?

Dental Bridge Vs. Dental Crowns: What Is The Difference?

Dental bridges and dental crowns are wonderful, durable options to restore a smile. However, they are both employed for different reasons. By understanding the specifics of both, patients can learn which option is best for their needs when consulting with a dentist.Dental bridges are recommended after a tooth extraction, whether by trauma or professional intervention.…