Many people have dental implants. For those who have lost one or more teeth, dental implants are an excellent way to restore their smiles and improve their speaking and chewing capabilities. Dental implants are a permanent, natural-looking dental restoration, and they feel, function, and look like natural teeth.
When you get dental implants in Dryden, it is essential that you know how to look after them so that they can last you for a lifetime. Failing to properly look after your dental implants can increase the likelihood of developing peri-implantitis, which is an inflammatory condition that affects the hard and soft tissues surrounding your dental implants. Our team at Kinizsi Dental has put together these tips for cleaning and looking after your dental implants so that you can enjoy them for years to come.
1. Use a Soft-Bristled Toothbrush
When you brush around your dental implants, make sure that you use a soft-bristled toothbrush. Soft-bristled toothbrushes are less likely to cause damage to your gums and are just as effective at removing harmful bacteria and plaque.
2. Brush at Least Twice a Day
Your dentist in Dryden recommends that you brush your teeth at least twice a day, preferably in the morning and at night. Brushing your teeth in the morning when you wake up eliminates morning breath and removes bacteria that has built up in your mouth overnight. Brushing before bedtime helps remove the bacteria built up throughout the day and lowers the risk of decay overnight.
3. Use a Non-Abrasive Toothpaste
Use a toothpaste that is non-abrasive since other toothpastes may cause your dental implants to wear down faster. Look for a toothpaste that is specifically designed for use on dental implants, or visit your dental office near you for recommendations.
4. Use Bridge and Crown Floss
Bridge and crown floss is specially designed to scrub around and under dental implants. It is composed of two stiff nylon ends and a fuzzy middle that gently cleans the dental implants. This floss is easily inserted in between the dental implants at the gum line. It is a good idea to use this floss after you are done brushing.
5. Ensure That You Brush Around and Under Your Implant Crown
Plaque and bacteria can build up under and around your implant crown and increase your risk for peri-implantitis. To reach these susceptible areas, use an angled toothbrush or interdental toothbrush with a slim head. This is especially useful if your implant is at the back of your mouth.
6. Try Using a Water Flosser
A water flosser can remove bacteria in the depths of your gum line and around your dental implant. Many dentists recommend water flossers over dental floss since they are very effective at removing plaque and tartar.
Visit Kinizsi Dental
When you get dental implants near you, it is important to continue visiting your dental clinic at least twice a year for a professional dental cleaning and checkup. This will ensure that your dental implants stay in good condition and allow your dentist to monitor your dental implants for any signs of infection or wear.
If you have recently gotten dental implants and are interested in learning more about the best ways to clean them, visit our team of dedicated dental professionals at Kinizsi Dental. We are happy to provide you with additional information about looking after your dental implants. Please contact us to book a consultation today!