Dental Implants

Caring for Dental Implants

Implants are a great option for tooth replacement when indicated. However, due to the unique shape and nature of implants, there are additional concerns when caring for them. Daily meticulous home care is key to the long-term success of dental implants. Although dental implants cannot decay like natural teeth, periodontal disease can affect implants just like natural teeth.  It can destroy gum tissue and supporting bone, eventually leading to loss of the implant. Please follow the instructions below to maximize the chances of success for your dental implant. It is likely you will notice that you may get food impacted between your teeth more readily around implants. Certain foods like meats, nuts, and popcorn are the biggest culprits. Following meals, a Waterpik is indicated to flush out food debris. Other aids include floss and interdental brushes  

 If you notice your gums bleeding around the implant it means there is inflammation present that needs to be resolved. Waterpiks, as well as tools that will help to stimulate the tissues, are advantageous, i.e. rubber tip stimulators or soft piks. If bleeding persists longer than 2 weeks, please call our office. We may need to check the implant to thoroughly clean or treat with antimicrobial therapy.

 

Dental Implant Care Instructions

Floss daily and brush at least 2-3 times daily with an electric toothbrush such as a Sonicare or Oral B, or a soft or extra-soft bristled manual toothbrush. Make this part of your daily routine to maintain healthy gum tissue. A Waterpik or similar irrigation device can be used in addition to brushing and flossing to clean the areas around your dental implant. Using a low abrasive toothpaste will minimize etching or dulling of the surface luster of the implant crown. Follow any specific additional homecare solutions tailored for you by the dentist and hygienist. Lastly, maintain your regular dental hygiene schedule, usually every 3-6 months.

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